The president of the Girls’ Schools Association (GSA) has said introducing VAT on school fees will not save money and will increase the burden on the taxpayer.

Sue Hincks, who is also headmistress of Bolton School girls’ division, addressed other headteachers today at the GSA’s annual conference, taking place this year in Bristol.

She demonstrated the independent sector’s approach to education as giving choice to parents who want their children to have a broader curriculum, spreading values of respect internationally, increasing bursary provision and working with state schools.

She said: “It defies belief that a major political party would put at risk all of this good work by charging VAT on school fees, with a dubious claim that this would raise significant funds for other purposes.

“In fact, introducing VAT on school fees will cost, not save, the state money, and increase the burden on the taxpayer.

“Such a policy would result in the closure of many independent schools, an even higher demand for state school places, and the disappearance of so much excellent inter-sector work that would become unaffordable.”

The GSA conference takes place from 18-19 November, with a host of sessions discussing topics such as fake news and sustainability, as well as the announcement of the GSA Woman of the Year.

Read more: https://ie-today.co.uk/Article/vat-on-school-fees-will-cost-not-save-the-state-money-says-gsa-president/

See also: Jeremy Corbyn refuses to commit to abolishing independent schools

Tes Independent School Awards: the shortlist unveiled

The leading contenders to win the most coveted honours in the independent sector are revealed today.

The unveiling of the shortlist for the Tes Independent School Awards marks the start of the countdown to one of education’s most prestigious nights.

On 7 February, the hopeful schools will gather for a dazzling ceremony at the Grosvenor House hotel in London.

It will be a night of celebration for teachers and headteachers, of recognition for the sector’s innovation and hard work and of sharing the very best stories the sector has to tell.

Competition has been fierce. “We received an unparalleled number of entries this year, all of which were first rate,” said Tes editor Ann Mroz.

“The schools that have been shortlisted should be proud – it’s a remarkable achievement.” 

Read more and see the shortlist: https://www.tes.com/news/tes-independent-school-awards-shortlist-unveiled