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State Schools Struggle to Absorb Influx After VAT on Private School Fees

Labour's policy change has left councils grappling with a shortage of spaces in key year groups, raising concerns about educational disruption.

  • The removal of VAT exemption for private schools has led to a 20% fee increase, pushing many families to shift their children to state schools.
  • At least 27 local authorities in England report being oversubscribed in critical year groups, particularly Years 7 and 8, with some councils unable to accommodate additional students at all.
  • Government estimates predict 37,000 students will leave private schools, with 35,000 expected to seek places in the state system, adding strain to already stretched resources.
  • Critics highlight the lack of sufficient planning for the uneven distribution of available spaces, with some areas facing acute shortages despite national capacity data suggesting otherwise.
  • Concerns have been raised about the impact on special educational needs provision and access to faith, bilingual, or single-sex schools as state systems struggle to adapt.
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