Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Private School Enrollment Plummets 1.9% Amid VAT Tax

6/6/2025

39 8

Summary

Story summary

Private school enrollment in England has plummeted by 11,000, a staggering 1.9% drop, following the imposition of a 20% VAT on fees. The Independent Schools Council revealed this decline surpasses government predictions. While officials attribute it to demographic shifts, critics contend that the tax burdens families, fueling the exodus from private education.

1 of 1

Story summary

Private school enrollment in England has plummeted by 11,000, a staggering 1.9% drop, following the imposition of a 20% VAT on fees. The Independent Schools Council revealed this decline surpasses government predictions. While officials attribute it to demographic shifts, critics contend that the tax burdens families, fueling the exodus from private education.