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The Independent Schools crisis

The challenges

Independent schools in the UK are facing their greatest challenge in decades

80% are undergoing major restructuring

Thousands of families are leaving due to VAT on school fees and rising costs

Many schools are on the brink of closure, unable to adapt to financial pressures like the abolishment of charitable rate relief and increased National Insurance contributions.

But the problem runs deeper

Schools are multi-million-pound businesses – yet they’re often run by educators without business expertise. Senior Leadership Teams and Governing Bodies lack the commercial acumen needed to navigate today’s economic landscape. The result? Poor planning, reactive decision-making, and financial instability.

The industry’s response

Schools facing closure typically choose one of three paths:

Join a Group

  • Operational efficiencies
  • Brand confidence

But: loss of autonomy, staff restructuring, and diluted governance

Local Merger

  • Shared resources
  • Cost savings

But: complex negotiations, cultural misalignment, and identity loss

Fight On

  • Preserve independence

But: underprepared leadership, lack of strategy, and financial risk

The opportunity: L&T

A new era for Independent Schools

At L&T, we offer a bold, strategic alternative – a path designed to protect and empower independent schools.
We are education specialists with deep commercial expertise, committed to helping schools not just survive, but thrive. Our model is built for recovery, resilience, and long-term success.

Preserve your school’s identity and independence

Gain access to expert financial and operational leadership

Implement a clear, proactive strategy for growth and sustainability

This is more than a lifeline – it’s a launchpad for a stronger future.