Declining Interest in Grammar Schools Amid VAT Concerns
The introduction of VAT on private school fees was expected to push many students to England's grammar schools, but recent data refutes this. Registrations for the 11-plus tests fell slightly compared to last year, and some areas reported decreased interest. The anticipated mass transition to state schools did not occur, partly due to the UK's declining birthrates.
Data from more than half of England’s selective state grammar schools indicates claims of being overwhelmed by students priced out of private schools due to VAT on fees are unfounded.
For the academic year starting next September, registration for the 11-plus entrance test dropped from 80,317 last year to 80,091 this year across 91 schools.
Most registrations occurred during the general election cycle, amid discussions on VAT implementation, which was expected to drive families from private to selective state schools.
Despite predictions from Conservative MPs like Robin Walker and Mark Francois, data shows no significant influx.
Some regions, like Kent and Birmingham, even reported declines.
The Campaign for State Education stressed that private school fees historically rise without affecting pupil numbers largely, whereas VAT revenue will fund additional teacher recruitment in state secondaries.
Meanwhile, the Independent Schools Council (ISC) reported a 1.7% decline in private school enrollments this September.
Although VAT may push some private students to state schools, declining birthrates and falling state school enrollments suggest capacity in state schools is sufficient.
For the academic year starting next September, registration for the 11-plus entrance test dropped from 80,317 last year to 80,091 this year across 91 schools.
Most registrations occurred during the general election cycle, amid discussions on VAT implementation, which was expected to drive families from private to selective state schools.
Despite predictions from Conservative MPs like Robin Walker and Mark Francois, data shows no significant influx.
Some regions, like Kent and Birmingham, even reported declines.
The Campaign for State Education stressed that private school fees historically rise without affecting pupil numbers largely, whereas VAT revenue will fund additional teacher recruitment in state secondaries.
Meanwhile, the Independent Schools Council (ISC) reported a 1.7% decline in private school enrollments this September.
Although VAT may push some private students to state schools, declining birthrates and falling state school enrollments suggest capacity in state schools is sufficient.
