Freedom of information response

Labour's proposal to introduce a 20% VAT on private school fees

Publication date: 
Tuesday 2 April 2024
Request: 

I would like to request the following information as an FOI request regarding Labour's proposal to introduce a 20% VAT on private school fees:
•    How many school places are currently available in all state schools within your boundaries today, by year group?  Please complete the attached table.
•    How many students do you anticipate moving from private schools to state schools within your boundaries if Labour's proposal to introduce a 20% VAT on private school fees takes effect from September 2024?  
•    What preparations will you have in place (from September 2024) to accommodate these students?
•    For SEND students moving from private to state schools because of the VAT proposal, what steps will you take to ensure that they receive at least the same level of support they received in their private school by September 2024?

Response: 

Please see attached. We are unable to provide vacancy information for Year 12 and 13 as admissions to these year groups are not co-ordinated by the local authority.

There are no private schools in Thurrock.

No preparations in place.

SEND Students will receive support to meet their needs in line with their EHCPs. 

Request reference:
FOI 13562