Around 11,000 pupils have already left private schooling since the policy came into force in January

Private school families have been dealt a devastating blow after they lost a High Court challenge to Labour's VAT on fees.

Judges deemed the policy ‘proportionate’ in its aim to raise extra revenue for state schools

Around 11,000 pupils have already left private schooling since the policy came into force in January

Surcharge was a Labour party manifesto commitment at the 2024 general election

Labour 's decision to levy VAT on private school fees has dealt a heavy blow to the sector, which some institutions have been unable to deal with.

The judgment by the High Court said the 20 per cent VAT would have a 'disproportionately prejudicial effect' on pupils with special needs.