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Christian schools seek judicial review over Labour VAT policy.

Staff writer  11 October 2024.

(Photo: Getty/iStock)

Independent Christian schools, parents and students are pursuing a judicial review to challenge the Labour government's plans to impose VAT on private school fees.

They argue that the policy, which comes into effect on January 1, discriminates against Christian parents and will result in the closure of Christian schools.

Supported by the Christian Legal Centre (CLC), they also say that the policy violates their parental rights to educate their children in accordance with their religious beliefs. 

Among the schools taking action are Emmanuel School in Derby, the Branch Christian School in Yorkshire, and the King's School in Hampshire.

They want the courts to declare the policy unlawful and order the government to amend or withdraw it completely. 

Caroline Santer, headteacher at the King's School in Hampshire, called the proposals "short-sighted" and said that the government "does not appear to realise, or care, about the impact they will have on the UK's education system".

"The VAT increase affects families who are not from affluent backgrounds but want to send their children to a Christian school. Following the draft legislation, a number of families have been forced to take out loans," she said. 

"The school will also feel the effect of the VAT increase as we will lose 80 per cent relief on business rates. The policy will also have a significant impact on teachers' wages and on the ability of independent schools to maintain their buildings." CT.