VAT Resources

The following statement has been produced for you to share with parents and stakeholders. HMC’s General Secretary, Dr Simon Hyde said;

“HMC (The Heads’ Conference, an association of 350 of the world’s leading independent schools) welcomes the decision of the Independent Schools Council Board to begin legal action to test the compatibility of VAT measures announced in the budget with Human Rights legislation.

Attempts by HMC and other sector bodies to engage with the Government and to explain the potential for damage to individual students, families and wider school communities have failed, sadly leaving legal action as our only recourse.

It is a matter of profound regret that the new Government has so far disregarded the work of independent schools in providing early years education, supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities as well as addressing disadvantage. A strong independent sector could do more. Alongside their commitment to excellence in pedagogy, educational innovation and work to support student and staff wellbeing, HMC schools have a global reputation and make significant contributions to economic growth and prosperity.

HMC schools and this Government share many of the same objectives and we continue to hope that ministers will wish to engage with the partnership activities that enable mutual understanding and collaboration between so many state and independent schools.”

Dr Simon Hyde General Secretary

The Heads’ Conference

12 The Point, Rockingham Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7QU