Julie Robinson, CEO of the Independent Schools Council (ISC), has responded to findings from this year's ISC's Census, which reveal a decline in pupil numbers alongside an increase in bursary provision at independent schools.
Julie Robinson, chief executive of the ISC, has warned that the VAT on fees policy could disproportionately impact pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The number of pupils at independent schools has fallen by more than 13,000 in a year, according to the ISC's annual census.
Independent school fees were 22.6 per cent higher in January compared to a year ago, the ISC has revealed. The average termly fee for a day school in January was £7,382, which includes 20 per cent VAT, while in January 2024 the average was £6,021.
Julie Robinson, chief executive of the Independent Schools Council (ISC), has warned that the VAT on fees policy has forced many independent schools to re-evaluate their staffing and subject provision.
Chief executive of the ISC Julie Robinson has warned that further fee rises, resulting from VAT on fees and other financial challenges, could contribute to an exodus of pupils from independent schools to "stretched" state schools.
The Independent Schools Council (ISC) has responded to concerns about examination 'access arrangements', noting that independent schools are working within the system's requirements.
ISC's deputy chief executive, Simon Nathan, has acknowledged the tough choices facing school leaders amid reports that more staff could strike this summer in response to pay and pension cuts.