New research by GEMS Education into UK migration trends follows introduction of VAT on private school fees
A third of parents whose children are being educated at private schools in the UK are planning to move out of the country in the next few years, according to new research following the UK Government’s introduction of VAT on private education.
The survey of parents with children at UK independent schools also found that among those parents thinking of leaving the country, 32% said their child’s schooling is their number one priority.
Meanwhile, 11% of parents said they would relocate to avoid paying the VAT on private education fees that were announced in the October 2024 Autumn Budget.
As of January 2025, private school fees will be charged VAT at the standard rate. From April 2025, private schools that are charities will also lose their business rates relief, which provides an 80% discount on the rates they pay on their premises.
The new findings are part of a wider report commissioned by global education provider GEMS Education that looks at the increasing trend of families relocating overseas, with Spain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates among the most popular destinations.
Primary driver in relocation
Johanna Waters, Professor of Human Geography, University College London (UCL), said: “As an academic who has been researching the link between education and migration for over 20 years, the findings in this fascinating report are an important confirmation of the trends we’ve been lately seeing.
“For many years, education has been a primary driver of international relocation for parents concerned about their children’s (global) futures. The report highlights a growing global trend in well-resourced families seeking schooling overseas when faced with increasing uncertainty and perceived instability at home.”
Of the parents surveyed, 73% said they had been thinking of moving already prior to the tax news. However, 61% admitted it was the push they needed to actively start planning to leave the UK.
More than half (61%) cited a generally better lifestyle as the top reason to move. Others pointed to a better future for their child (40%) and job opportunities (29%). Improved wages (21%), housing (19%), and healthcare (19%) were also motivations.
Commenting on the findings, Lisa Crausby OBE, Group Chief Education Officer at GEMS Education, said: “The report shows that, for many families, moving away from the UK could become a reality in the near future. It is interesting to note that education – leading to a better future and job opportunities – is one of the key factors influencing this decision to move abroad.
“Today, it is easier than ever for expat families to find high-quality schools that teach the National Curriculum for England in all parts of the world. Students can seamlessly begin, continue, and complete their schooling abroad, graduating with the same GCSE and A-level qualifications that they would have gained in the UK, enhanced with an international perspective and global citizenship.
“We are seeing this trend reflected at GEMS Education, where we have already recorded an eight per cent year-on-year increase in the number of British families enrolled in our 44 UAE schools, as well as a 26 per cent year-on-year rise in enquiries from the UK.”
Click here to find out more about GEMS Education and access the new Exodus & Education report.