VAT on independent school fees

On 22 May, the Supreme Court granted a group of independent Christian schools, parents and pupils permission to appeal the judgment in R (BYL & Anor) v Chancellor of the Exchequer & Ors [2026] EWCA Civ 170, on the Government’s decision to impose VAT on independent school fees. The ground of appeal is whether the policy strikes a fair balance between its stated objectives and its consequences for affected schools, parents and children. The appellants argue that the policy “disproportionately impacts Christian schools and the families who choose them, particularly those of modest means”.

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