two young boys sitting at a table with books

VAT changes blamed for school closure

Malvern St James, an independent school in Worcestershire, plans to close due to significant funding shortfalls. The school, which has around 170 pupils, has seen a decline in enrolment over recent years. Nicholas Grenfell-Martin, chairman of the management board, expressed “great sadness” over the decision. Rising employment costs and the introduction of VAT on school fees have added pressure.