New data reveals an increase in private school attendance in England despite Labour's proposal to add VAT to school fees.

According to the Department for Education (DfE), 593,486 pupils were enrolled in independent schools as of January, up from the previous year's 591,954.

This contrasts with the Independent Schools Council's (ISC) concerns about declining numbers due to Labour’s policy.

The official school census data also shows an increase in the number of independent schools, rising from 2,409 to 2,421 last year.

Labour aims to use the £1.5 billion from the 20% VAT and business rates to recruit 6,500 teachers for state schools.

Despite ISC's warnings, an Institute for Fiscal Studies report suggested minimal migration from private to state schools.

Meanwhile, private school fees continue to rise, with average day school fees increasing to £18,064 annually, and boarding school fees to £42,459.