The chair of the Heads’ Conference (HMC), representing the UK’s prestigious independent schools, has declared that the government’s recent tax policy targeting private schools has not fulfilled its promise to fund 6,500 new teachers for the state education sector. Philip Britton, a prominent figure in education, stated that despite Labour’s assurances, the initiative has resulted in “no wider benefit” to state education.
Following the introduction of a 20 percent VAT on private school fees in January 2025, the HMC reports that 81 private schools have closed, with many citing the tax as a significant factor in their decision. According to estimates from the Independent Schools Council, around 25,000 pupils have been displaced from these institutions due to escalating costs.
Britton has called for a comprehensive impact assessment of the tax on young people and local economies. He noted, “Millions have been removed from the local economy in my area alone through VAT payments. What real impact on state school funding locally has that added?” His remarks underscore concerns about the financial implications of the policy on both independent and state education sectors.
The government’s accountability has come under scrutiny, particularly as it has delayed the release of its recruitment plan for the promised new teachers. Recent statements from the Conservative Party leader, Kemi Badenoch, revealed that there are now 400 fewer teachers in the system since Labour took office, contradicting the party’s commitment to bolster teacher numbers.
Britton also criticized the government’s narrative surrounding the tax, stating that Labour has misrepresented the situation by framing the VAT as the removal of “tax breaks” rather than acknowledging it as a new tax. He remarked, “It is not alright to say things that are not true,” referring to the recent High Court judgment that clarified the nature of the tax.
He expressed discontent with the government’s communication strategy, asserting that society deserves more transparent dialogue regarding the negative impacts of the VAT policy on education. “Honest, open and straightforward talk is needed about the detriment this policy has brought and also, at present, lack of benefit to wider education,” he stated.
Recent statistics indicate that 41,200 teachers left the profession during the 2023/2024 academic year, which represents approximately 10 percent of the teaching workforce. This trend exacerbates the challenges faced by schools in both the private and public sectors.
In response to criticisms, a government spokesperson reiterated their commitment to recruit 6,500 teachers, claiming that over 2,300 new secondary and special school teachers have already been added to classrooms this year. They also noted a decrease in teacher attrition, with 1,300 fewer teachers leaving the profession, marking one of the lowest leave rates since 2010.
Britton’s comments reflect a growing frustration within the educational community regarding the government’s handling of school funding and teacher recruitment. As the debate continues, the implications of the VAT policy on the future of education in the UK remain a focal point for educators, policymakers, and the public alike.
