VAT on UK Private School Fees and How Online School is the Alternative

Parents and educators are concerned following the recent UK General Election on July 4, 2024, which saw the Labour Party win a significant majority. This outcome has brought their proposal to impose a 20% VAT on private school fees closer to becoming a reality.

For international and expat families, this is particularly worrisome as they now assess the potential financial impacts of this policy on their child’s education.

What Does This Mean for Private School Fees?

If Labour's proposal is implemented, UK private schools will lose their VAT exemptions and business rate reliefs. This change is expected to lead to a considerable increase in fees for parents, both UK-based and international families.

For example, day school fees could rise from an average of £16,500 to nearly £20,000 per year, while boarding school fees might increase to an extra £8000 annually. 

How does this affect international students?

For international families considering a UK private education, the introduction of a 20% VAT could make this option significantly more expensive.

With this substantial fee increase on the horizon, many parents are likely to explore alternative educational options that maintain high academic standards without the heavy financial burden.

The Solution? Online Schooling

While online schools in the UK are also subject to the proposed VAT, many still offer significantly lower annual fees compared to traditional private schools, making them a more affordable alternative.

Online education provides a flexible option for students aged five to 18, with a variety of programs, including GCSEs, A-Levels, US Diploma and AP courses. The flexibility in fee structures makes online schooling a cost-effective solution for many families.

Save on World-Class Education at CGA

Crimson Global Academy offers numerous financial and practical benefits that include flexible, high-quality education without the substantial cost increases associated with traditional UK private schools. Here are some key aspects of CGA's offerings:

No Commute: Students can attend classes from the comfort of their homes, saving on transportation costs and time.

Digital Learning Materials: Many online schools provide digital textbooks and resources, reducing the cost of learning materials.

Flexible Payment Options: Families can choose to pay per subject, allowing for more manageable and flexible financial planning.

No Uniform Costs: The lack of a school uniform requirement further reduces expenses.

Adaptable Schedules: Online schools offer flexible timetables that can accommodate different time zones and family schedules.

In addition to this fees include access to extracurricular clubs, events, and recordings of enrolled classes. Full-time fees also include university and career counselling, form time, and assemblies. 

Benefits of Online Private Schools Beyond Cost

Online private schools offer numerous advantages that extend well beyond affordability. One of the most significant benefits is the flexibility they provide. Unlike traditional schooling, which often adheres to a rigid schedule, online education allows students to learn at their own pace and on their own time.

This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for families with unique scheduling needs, such as those with parents who travel frequently or students involved in intensive extracurricular activities.

At CGA, we have professional student-athletes in equestrian, gymnastics, and tennis, as well as families who travel around the world, all of whom benefit greatly from the adaptable scheduling that online education offers.

Another major advantage of online education is the access it provides to a diverse range of courses.

Traditional schools might be limited in the variety of subjects they can offer due to logistical and staffing constraints. In contrast, online schools can offer an extensive array of courses, including specialised subjects and advanced placement classes that might not be available locally.

At CGA, students can also study based on their ability, not their age, meaning they can take accelerated courses to help them prepare for university admissions. This approach ensures that each student is challenged appropriately and can advance according to their individual capabilities and ambitions.

Is Online School Right for My Family?

Online learning helps develop important skills that are valuable both academically and in everyday life. Students engaged in online education often become adept at self-discipline, as they need to manage their time effectively and stay motivated without the constant supervision found in traditional classrooms.

By considering online schooling, families can mitigate the financial impact of the new VAT while ensuring their children receive a high-quality education.

For more information on how CGA can meet your educational needs, speak to an Academic Advisor today.