Independent Schools Council

Independent schools make a significant contribution to the UK economy, saving the taxpayer £3.5 billion every year by providing places for pupils who could otherwise be expected to take up a place in the state sector https://lnkd.in/eeeMhSfX

Independent schools provide life-changing educational opportunities through means-tested bursaries, widening access for children from all walks of life. This year marks the quatercentenary of the Latymer Foundation, a charity that today runs Latymer Upper School. In the lead-up to the event, Latymer has embarked on an ambitious bursary programme, aiming to raise £40 million in fee assistance - and they have already surpassed that target. To learn more about this inspiring campaign, read our Celebrating Partnerships booklet 👇 https://bit.ly/4bOY6dm

Independent schools provide places for pupils under the government's Music and Dance Scheme, which offers means-tested bursaries for those with a passion for music, dance or drama. If VAT is added to these pupils' fees, the impact on affordability for families could be devastating 🔻

ISC blog: "By embracing digital badging, we are not only documenting achievements but also inspiring our students to reach their fullest potential." Graeme Lawrie MBE, partnerships director at ACS International Schools, explains how digital badges, which are revolutionising the way achievements are recognised in education, will be introduced at ACS this September – with plans to expand to partner schools next year. https://lnkd.in/e3U8WGB8

ISC was glad to represent independent schools at a reception with the new education team at the Department for Education. We are delighted to renew contact with Stephen Morgan MP as minister responsible for independent schools. There are many serious policy issues for the government to tackle. We aim to make a positive start, engaging in the spirit of resetting relationships.

🎹 Independent performing arts schools provide specialist training for children with a passion and talent for music, dance or drama. The government’s Music and Dance Scheme offers means-tested bursaries up to the value of the full fee, ensuring children are able to access these opportunities regardless of their background. Last year, the amount of fee support provided to pupils under the scheme totalled £35 million. Labour’s VAT policy risks disrupting the education of these pupils. Adding 20 per cent to fees would severely impact affordability for parents relying on bursaries. Performing arts schools provide specialised education that nurtures the UK’s creative talent, a significant contributor to Britain's internal investment and global exports. We urge the new Labour government to: 🎻Conduct a full impact assessment of the VAT policy. 🎸Exempt all children under the scheme from any potential tax on fees. #Education #PerformingArts #MusicAndDance #IndependentSchools

The new government faces several challenges in implementing the VAT on fees policy and navigating its potential impact on state and independent schools, iNews reports https://lnkd.in/gK3X85D3

"There are children in these private schools that are not from wealthy backgrounds. They are talented and they should be nurtured in that talent." Speaking to Ady Dayman on BBC Radio Leicester, Samantha, whose son attends Tring Park School for the Performing Arts with the help of a bursary, urges Labour to "rethink the blanket VAT charge" on independent school fees https://lnkd.in/gyMjUxyM (listen from 1:15:32)

“A lot of ordinary people make sacrifices in terms of children’s education – to me and to my wife there seems nothing more important. My car is 17 years old and we don’t take lots of foreign holidays. I’m not complaining about that, but if I’m struggling as a consultant of over 20 years then how on earth will anyone else in a similar position be able to do it?” The Telegraph speaks to several parents concerned about the potential impact of the VAT on fees policy https://lnkd.in/epB9Avq8

ISC chief executive Julie Robinson explains how the VAT on fees policy could be "devastating" for children attending independent performing arts schools under the government's Music and Dance Scheme 👇