What to look out for when selecting an independent school with VAT on the horizon
By Dr Eddie Falshaw, Deputy Head at Leighton Park School
'With the Labour Party announcing its plans to scrap VAT exemptions on independent schools should it win the upcoming general election, it’s understandable that many parents are concerned about the implications of this potential shift on their child’s education.
The move could see school fees increasing by up to 20 percent, with concerns rising that the move is already having an impact on the independent schooling system, as recent figures from the Independent Schools Council (ISC) reveal a 2.7 percent drop in enrolments for this academic year.
Despite these uncertainties, interest in independent schools remains strong, underscoring the unparalleled benefits and opportunities that they can offer.
With school open days underway, here are the top seven key considerations for parents when selecting an independent school and ensuring their children’s education remains a top priority.
#1 Is the school transparent about fees and financial aid?
With the potential for VAT to raise school fees by 20 percent, thorough financial planning has never been more important.
Look to schools that offer clear, transparent communication about their fee structures, anticipated increases and any measures they might take to mitigate the impact of VAT.
Some schools might offer phased fee increases, financial aid or establish scholarship programs to support families.
Dig deep to see if schools are transparent about costs. What is included and what is extra? Some schools publish a lower fee but then charge more for meals, co-curricular hobbies, wrap-around care and school trips, while some boarding schools, like Leighton Park, include such costs in the fees. This will help you make informed decisions and plan effectively for your child's future.
#2 Does the school have a solid financial position?
It is worth exploring each schools’ financial position. Is the school popular with a strong intake of girls and boys across different intakes, enabling it to be confident about its future?
If a registered charity, then you can see a school’s financial history, assets and liabilities on the Charity Commission website. If a business, then you can check their financial disclosures on the Companies House website. If a school has large liabilities or its expenditure consistently outstrips income then this may warrant further investigation. While shiny new facilities can look attractive, most parents will want to know that their fees are going towards the quality of the education rather than paying off large loans.
#3 What co-curricular opportunities are there available?
A significant advantage of independent schools is the rich array of co-curricular activities available.
These activities are crucial for fostering skills such as teamwork, leadership and resilience, as well as letting students explore their wider interests and discover new interests.
When visiting schools, ask about the range of sports, arts, clubs and other activities available, paying close attention to how these opportunities align with your child's interests and passions. Check if there are any additional charges or if these activities are included in the fees.
#4 How good is the pastoral care?
Pastoral care is at the heart of a nurturing school environment. Ensuring that children feel safe and supported is vital for their overall development and happiness. This is an increasingly important factor for many parents against the backdrop of Emotional-based School Avoidance, self-harming and anxiety.
During your visit, observe how staff interact with students and ask about the school's policies on mental health and well-being. Ask about the school’s support systems, including how the Tutor System works, boarding house staff if applicable, and support for when students do face challenges. Speaking with current parents and students can provide valuable insights into the school's community and support systems. A school’s Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) report can also often provide a valuable authoritative and unbiased view as well as highlight where schools have had issues with peer-on-peer abuse and bullying. The latest ISI report is usually available on a school’s website or you can also check the ISI’s website, which will also include previous reports.
#5 Do the school’s values align with your own?
Every school has its unique values and ethos, which can significantly impact your child's education. Explore whether these values are surface deep or whether they have purpose and currency in the school. Ask how these values are borne out in school life and how your child will benefit.
At Leighton Park School, we pride ourselves on our values-driven approach to education.
Consider what is most important to your family, whether it’s academic rigour, creativity, community service or spiritual development.
#6 Are the facilities modern and well-maintained?
High-quality facilities can significantly enhance the learning experience. Modern classrooms, well-equipped science labs, expansive sports facilities and dedicated arts spaces contribute to a well-rounded education.
When touring schools, take note of the quality and upkeep of the facilities. Schools that invest in their infrastructure demonstrate a commitment to providing the best possible environment for their students. Ask to see the facilities that are most relevant to your child and don’t be restricted to the ‘highlights’ tour.
#7 What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
Small class sizes and high-quality teaching are hallmarks of independent schools.
Smaller classes allow for more personalised attention and tailored instruction, which can enhance learning outcomes.
So, make sure to ask about the student-to-teacher ratio and the qualifications and experience of the teaching staff. This may be particularly important in subjects like Maths, Computer Science and Physics, which are shortage subjects nationally – with schools finding it harder to recruit high quality specialist teachers in these areas.'
June 2024