We expect to see increased financial pressure on independent schools, colleges and universities, with the possibility that this will lead to some closing, contracting or merging. We are already seeing steps being taken by some universities to cut costs to deal with these pressures and mitigate the reduction in applications from UK and international students. While the government has confirmed that the new Finance Bill will bring in changes to the VAT status of independent schools on 1 January 2025, legal challenges have been launched, along with political pressure to delay any changes until the next school year. These financial pressures and uncertainties will also likely result in an increased number of student complaints, including about the standard of course delivery and withdrawal of courses, as well as employment claims and third party contractual claims.