Sir Oliver Dowden CBE, MP for Hertsmere, told the Prime Minister that the potential closure of another prep school in Bushey is a “double hit to aspiration”.
St Hilda’s Prep School for Girls announced earlier this month that it was having to assess its future due to financial difficulties.
This follows the news that Immanuel College Prep School – the only Jewish prep school in Bushey – will close at the end of this academic year.
Reportedly, this is partially down to the addition of VAT to school fees, as well as the increase in employer National Insurance contributions and the removal of business rates relief.
On Wednesday, March 5, Sir Oliver MP addressed the Prime Minister, saying: “[St Hilda’s is the] second school in Bushey forced to close because of the government’s VAT hike. These closures are a double hit to aspiration.
“First to the parents, many of whom are not wealthy, who have described to me the significant personal sacrifices they have made.
“And second, the additional burden on excellent local state schools, like the one I attended, that will struggle to find places for the children meaning it won’t save any money.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer replied: “I don’t doubt the aspirations of all parents in relation to their children. What we have been able to do is to make sure we release the funding to ensure that our state secondary schools have the teachers they need.”
0 Comments