Speaking at the end of the Scottish Council of Independent Schools (SCIS) annual conference held at the Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Stewart Ward, UK Director – Education, Specialist Finance & Head of School Fee Plan said:

“There has been a huge challenge thrown down for parents and schools with the introduction of VAT on independent school fees. However, I believe our collective resilience and ability to react at pace will ensure that schools continue to deliver excellent well rounded education opportunities for young people, whilst sustaining their financial integrity.

“School Fee Plan has been at the forefront of finance solutions covering the cost of school fees for the last three decades - it’s fitting we celebrate our 30th anniversary year here in such a setting.

Mr Ward continued: “I believe that giving parents the choice to pay their school fees through smart, convenient monthly payments, just like they do for all other large household bills, is something that should be considered. It not only helps both parents and schools with cash flow, it also gives schools regulatory protection when collecting payments.”