School closures: 'For many, the government's decision to tax education has proven a bridge too far'
Posted on: 03 Aug 2025
Posted by: ISC Press Office
Julie Robinson, chief executive of the ISC, has responded to reports that over 50 independent schools have closed or announced closure since VAT was imposed on fees in January.
Speaking to The Times, Ms Robinson said: “Anyone interested in this policy as a revenue raiser should be concerned by the number of pupils who have already left independent education, which is already much higher than the government predicted.
“While there is a combination of factors contributing to school closures, for many the government’s decision to tax education has proven a bridge too far. We are likely to see further closures over the coming months and years as the effects of VAT and other tax measures mount up.”