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3mo ago

Parents Increasingly Bend Rules to Secure Spots in Top UK State Schools

A survey reveals rising numbers of parents falsifying addresses and religious beliefs to access competitive schools, driven partly by Labour's VAT policy on private education.

“If you cheat your way into a school, please do not kid yourself that you can keep it a secret. Everyone will know, as school gates run on gossip”
Some parents admitted to registering a family friend’s address to qualify for a chosen catchment area

Overview

  • A Zoopla survey found that 28% of parents admitted to lying or bending rules to get their children into top state schools, up from 24% in 2022.
  • The trend is linked to Labour's recent 20% VAT on private school fees, which has pushed more students into the state sector, increasing competition for placements.
  • Common tactics include faking home addresses within catchment areas and exaggerating religious observance, with 30% and 25% of parents, respectively, admitting to these practices.
  • In London, where competition for school spots is highest, 38% of parents reported resorting to dishonest measures, such as temporarily renting properties in desired areas.
  • Parents who follow the rules face significant financial burdens, with homebuyers paying an average premium of £65,333 for properties near top schools, rising to £115,750 in London.