According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, up to 40,000 children will be pushed out of private schools and into state schools as a result of Labour’s plans – at a cost of up to £300 million a year to the taxpayer.
Mr Starmer, however, has committed to bring in his plan immediately should he be in Downing Street come 5 July. The VAT charge is expected to raise £1.6 billion to spend on a series of state education pledges.
Alton’s impending closure has prompted an outpouring of sadness and concern among parents, prospective parents and former pupils.
“This is very sad. It seemed as if it was a very nurturing school with some lovely teaching staff,” said one.
Writing on the Mumsnet messaging board, one anonymous parent at the school said: “A message was sent out today saying that the school is closing at the end of this summer term. Very sad for all teachers and pupils concerned, especially those doing GCSEs and A levels next year.”
Another parent added: “The letter to families said enrolment for September was too low for the school to remain viable. It’s a while since my DD [darling daughter] left but we have very fond memories, they had some superb staff.”
In his letter to parents, Mr Reeve said the news was “extremely upsetting and disappointing”.
He said the school would do all it could to help parents find new school places for their children.