Independent schools’ VAT legal challenge fast-tracked

Legal action challenging the government’s decision to levy VAT on independent school fees will be fast-tracked the High Court of England and Wales has determined.

In a court hearing on 17 January Lord Pannick KC acting on behalf of six claimants supported by the Independent Schools Council (ISC) argued that parents needed certainty given the effects of VAT were already being felt. This follows the implementation of the policy which came into effect on 1 January 2025.

Counsel representing the government opposed the request asking for more time to consider the evidence. However Mr Justice Chamberlain dismissed the government’s arguments and agreed that the case should be expedited.

Julie Robinson chief executive officer of the ISC said: ‘This is an unprecedented tax on education and it is right that its compatibility with human rights law...