There has been further coverage of the Independent Schools Council's (ISC) 2025 Census. The Financial Times reports that pupil rolls at independent primaries fell by 3.5 per cent between January 2024 and January 2025, while secondary school numbers declined 1.7 per cent. Sam Freedman, a former government education policy adviser, said the findings suggest parents are choosing to prioritise secondary education: "Parents who do have concerns about managing higher costs may put their children in state primaries but then use private secondary schools." The article also references a quote from Julie Robinson, ISC CEO, who warned that it would take several years for the full effect of the VAT policy to be seen. By Amy Borrett and Laura Hughes.

Schools Week takes a closer look at the census findings in the context of the VAT of fees policy. The ISC's report shows 34.5 per cent of all independent school pupils (more than 183,000) currently receive help with their fees. This equates to more than £1.5 billion, which represents an increase of 11.4 per cent on last year’s support. Mark Taylor, interim chair of the ISC, is quoted from the census foreword, saying that "even under the most acute pressure, schools have maintained their commitment to educate the widest possible range of children". By Lydia Chantler-Hicks. 

In a letter to The Times, Richard Cairns, principal of Brighton College, reflects on the findings of the ISC's latest annual census, which indicate the government's VAT on fees policy has led to a sharp drop in the number of independent school pupils. Questioning the efficiency of such a policy, Mr Cairns asks: "Is this really the best way to raise money to pay for half a teacher per school in a state sector that requires so much more?" The letter appears halfway down the page.

In a written question in the House of Lords, Lord Taylor of Warwick asked ministers what assessment they have made of the number of children who have left independent schools and enrolled in state-funded education following the application of VAT on school fees. In response, Baroness Smith of Malvern said: "The published tax information and impact note on VAT includes impact on pupil movement, with any movement into the state sector estimated to be equivalent to fewer than 0.1% of pupils this academic year." Hansard.

Writing in Tes, Luke Ramsden explores the link between pupils' mental health and attendance in light of new government research on these issues. Some of the findings may challenge established beliefs, explains Mr Ramsden: "Across most thresholds, the report found no meaningful statistical link between mental ill-health and unauthorised absence. In fact, other factors - such as family composition, parental aspirations and school engagement - were stronger predictors of unauthorised non-attendance. This distinction is critical for schools aiming to interpret patterns of absenteeism more sensitively." Luke Ramsden is deputy head of an independent school and chair of trustees for the Schools Consent Project.

A ban on disposable vapes will come into force across the UK from 1 June. Sky News explores the reasons behind the government’s crackdown and outlines the penalties for those who continue to sell them. The government has said it hopes the ban will make vaping less accessible to children, as statistics highlight a growing popularity among individuals aged 11 to 15. By Jake Levison.

As the ban on disposable vapes approaches, some campaigners are warning that young people may turn to alternative nicotine products. BBC News speaks to 16-year-old Johnpaul, who switched to nicotine pouches to quit vaping but found himself addicted to them instead, at one point using 15 pouches a day. The small sachets, often called "snus", are largely unregulated in the UK and remain legally accessible to children. Health experts warn they are addictive and may carry other risks, raising concerns that the vape ban could push more youths towards such stronger nicotine products. By Hayley Jarvis.

Gordonstoun has announced a new international sporting partnership with Gulf United, a professional football club in Dubai led by former pupil Mohamed Al Rais. The initiative includes student exchange programmes, professional-level training, and expanded sports education across disciplines such as rugby, football, sailing, and fencing. Closer to home, the school is also partnering with Moray RFC and regional leagues to boost competition and strengthen community ties. Unveiling the plans, headteacher Simon Cane-Hardy said: "This is an exciting new era for sport at Gordonstoun, a vision where sports provision is designed to benefit all our students while strengthening our links with the local community and building new sporting partnerships around the world." By Sarah Ward, The Scotsman.

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