The ISC has today published the latest Celebrating Partnerships booklet, an annual publication showcasing inspiring examples of collaborative programmes taking place between state and independent schools.

A digital 'flipbook' version of the booklet can be accessed here. Alternatively, click here to download a PDF of the publication. 

Philip Britton MBE, the incoming chair of The Heads' Conference (HMC), has expressed concern for finance professionals having to register independent schools for VAT before the policy's 1 January implementation date. Speaking to the Daily Mail, Mr Britton, head of Bolton School, said his worry "has and always will be for the children", but that urgent clarity is needed for those putting it into effect. He explained: "They are all professionals wanting to do the best job possible. These are not political or principled issues, as those discussions lie elsewhere. Instead they are deeply practical challenges, and in some cases perhaps literally impossible ones." Mr Britton warned there would be a "tsunami" of VAT registrations from independent schools in the coming weeks, adding: "We can only hope the system is robust enough." By Elizabeth Ivens.

Small independent schools in Wales face “overnight closure” under new VAT rules, the head of St Gerard's School Trust has warned. Describing the situation facing his own school, Campbell Harrison said: “We cater for 10% wealthy parents and the rest are scraping together having normal cars and no holidays so they can send their children here, some because their children cannot survive in the state environment. They are sacrificing everything to send their children here." Mr Harrison added: “I am not being dramatic... we could close overnight with an exodus of children.” By Abbie Wightwick, Wales Online.

In a House of Lords written question, Lord Lexden OBE, president of the Independent Schools Association (ISA), asked how ministers plan to apportion the funds raised by charging VAT on school fees between the recruitment of more teachers, the creation of more nurseries and the establishment of breakfast clubs in all primary schools.

Responding, Lord Livermore said: "From 1 January 2025, the 20% standard rate of VAT will apply to all education services, vocational training, and boarding services provided by private schools for a charge. It will be a commercial decision for individual schools how they fund this additional cost. Charging VAT at the standard rate of 20% does not mean that schools must increase fees by 20%. Schools can reclaim VAT paid on inputs and reduce costs to minimise the extent to which they need to increase fees. On average, the government expects fees to rise by 10%. After recovery of VAT on their costs, on average the government expects schools to be liable for VAT amounting to approximately 15% of fee income. The government will use this funding to help deliver its commitments relating to education and young people. In the Budget the government announced a £2.3 billion increase to the core schools budget for financial year 2025/26, increasing per pupil funding in real terms." Hansard.

In a separate question, Lord Lexden asked what plans the government has to ensure the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) guidance on independent schools' VAT payments is reissued to correct errors and improve its drafting. 

Lord Livermore responded: "HMRC has put in place a number of measures to ensure schools can be ready for the introduction of VAT on private school fees and remains committed to supporting schools with their new VAT obligations, including by providing bespoke guidance and webinars."

The Labour life peer continued: "We do not recognise reports that HMRC's guidance contains errors. In publishing its guidance, HMRC has addressed areas of uncertainty and will provide further clarification in guidance if that is required. As with all guidance, HMRC will keep the guidance for private schools under review and continue to update it in light of further feedback we receive during our ongoing engagement with the sector – for example, any common questions that arise during the webinars. Following the Budget, an update to the guidance has now been published to reflect the final policy design and legislation." Hansard.

Smoking is to be banned outside schools in England in plans announced by the government. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will be laid before parliament today, aims to make the UK the first country in the world to eradicate smoking by raising the age at which people can buy cigarettes by one year every year until no one can legally do so. The legislation will also ban the advertising of vapes, amid concern over the number of children and young people taking up the habit. By Denis Campbell, The Guardian. 

University tuition fees in England will rise for the first time in eight years as part of a major overhaul of the higher education system, education secretary Bridget Phillipson has announced. Frozen at £9,250 since 2017, fees will increase in line with Retail Price Index inflation from September 2025, potentially reaching around £9,500. By Millie Cooke and David Maddox, The Independent.

The National Literacy Trust's annual survey has found that boys' interest in reading has fallen to its lowest level on record, with just 28 per cent of boys aged eight to 18 enjoying reading in their free time, a significant decline from 41 per cent in 2023. Girls' reading enjoyment also declined, with 40 per cent saying they enjoy reading in their free time, down from 45 per cent last year. By Poppy Wood, The Telegraph. 

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