An MP has written to the Prime Minister with concerns about the government’s plans to add VAT to private school fees. Removal of independent schools’ charitable status will require them to pay an additional 20 per cent VAT charge by January 1, 2025. Mimms Davies, Conservative MP for East Grinstead and Uckfield, has written to Keir Starmer expressing her fears about the impact on state schools, military families, music schools and faith schools.
Some schools are yet to confirm an official position but have indicated that fees are likely to rise. Brighton College said that “in the event of a change in legislation, then VAT may become payable at the prevailing rate”. Roedean school in nBrighton has informed parents that “VAT will become payable” should the legislation change.
Brighton Girls School currently sets its fees for Year 11 pupils at £6,060 per term. The school said this will rise to £6,787 per term after VAT is added. Burgess Hill Girls has said it is disappointed by the government's decision (Image: Burgess Hill Girls) But Ardingly College will absorb half of the cost and pass on the remaining half to parents.
Headmaster Ben Figgis said: “ At Ardingly, we have managed to grow our non-fee income from international schools and commercial holiday lettings in recent years, so we’ve been able to give our parents peace of mind, back in March this year, that we will absorb half the VAT and only pass on the remaining half to parents, spread out over two acad.