The Court of Appeal has dismissed a legal challenge against the government's decision to add VAT to private school fees, ruling that parents who object to state education can opt for home schooling. The appeal was brought by families and leaders of four independent Christian faith schools, who argued that the 20% levy would render small faith schools unviable, violating children's right to an equivalent education.
Sir Geoffrey Vos, Lady Justice Falk, and Lord Justice Singh rejected the appeal, stating there is no prohibition on taxing education and no guarantee of a right to a particular type of education beyond what the state provides. They acknowledged the measure's serious impact on parents but noted home schooling remains an option if state education is unacceptable.
The schools involved—Wyclif Independent Christian School, Emmanuel School, the Branch Christian School, and the King's School—charge fees between £3,000 and £12,000 a year, significantly lower than typical independent school fees. They rely on donations, volunteers, and teachers accepting lower pay.
Andrea Williams, chief executive of the Christian Legal Centre, said the group will seek permission to appeal to the Supreme Court. She criticised the policy as penalising parents who want a Christian education, adding that low-cost schools are already closing. Ane Vernon, an education law specialist, noted the ruling was unsurprising given Labour's manifesto commitment, but said the home schooling suggestion may leave a bitter taste for many parents.
