Trinity Christian School in Reading closed after 13 years, citing the removal of VAT exemption on private school fees and rising business rates as the main reasons. The UK government introduced VAT on private school fees from 1 January 2025 at the standard 20% rate, expected to raise £1.8 billion a year by 2029/30. The school’s business rates increased to £35,000 from about £5,000, and its application for discretionary relief was denied.
From 1 January 2025, private school fees became subject to VAT at the standard 20% rate.
The Department for Education estimates it will raise £1.8 billion a year by 2029/30.
The school’s business rates rose to £35,000 per year from around £5,000, making them unaffordable.
No, Reading Borough Council rejected the school's application for discretionary relief.
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