'Schools are able to do so much more good if they can thrive’, ISC CEO tells Times Radio

Julie Robinson, chief executive of the Independent Schools Council (ISC), was interviewed by Cathy Newman on Times Radio following the publication of the 2023 ISC Census. On the subject of fee rises, which largely reflect government levels of wage inflation, Ms Robinson highlighted the cost pressures schools are facing – with some seeing their energy bills increase tenfold. The chief executive also explained how schools are supporting families through increasing fee assistance, which has risen to more than £1 billion this year. Referencing Labour’s pledge to add VAT to school fees, Ms Robinson said: “Everyone wants properly funded state schools, absolutely - but the disruption caused by this policy simply wouldn’t be worth the raising of a small amount of money.”