Labour's VAT Policy on Private Schools Faces Criticism Over SEND Impact
Concerns rise as Labour's VAT increase on private schools is set to affect children with special educational needs and disabilities amidst an already strained system.
- Labour MP Rachael Maskell has called for a delay in implementing the VAT hike on private schools, citing potential harm to children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
- The proposed VAT increase aims to exempt only 8,000 children with formal EHC plans, leaving approximately 99,000 SEND children in private schools vulnerable to disruption.
- A National Audit Office report highlights that 40% of councils could face bankruptcy by 2026 due to escalating SEND costs, with state schools already overburdened.
- The number of children requiring education, health, and care plans (EHCPs) has doubled in the past decade, stressing the need for systemic reform and increased funding.
- Critics argue that the SEND crisis stems from years of underfunding and mismanagement, urging the government to prioritize investment in both mainstream and specialist education.
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