Private education can be both accessible and high-quality, even in the face of financial challenges such as the application of VAT to school fees.
St Philips Education, a family-run business led by Gary Hartland and his brother Dr Andrew Hartland, has successfully demonstrated this through its ownership and management of St. Dominic’s Grammar School and Birchfield School. The Hartlands are also the proprietors of St Philips Care, a care home group operating 34 facilities across the UK and the Channel Islands.
When they took over the assets of Birchfield and St Dominic’s, the Hartlands envisioned a long-term, sustainable model for private education.
Their aim was clear: to reduce fees to a more affordable level, attract a larger student body to reach full capacity, and provide access to families who might not typically consider private schooling. By maintaining competitive fees, they sought to create a diverse educational community that prioritises ability and commitment.
This forward-thinking approach has proven highly effective. Over the past five years, student enrolment at both schools has doubled, and the institutions are thriving and trading profitably. This success has not only validated their strategy but also prepared the schools to navigate challenges such as the recent introduction of VAT on private education fees by the Labour government. Despite this, Gary Hartland says: “Although we’ve had to pass VAT onto parents, our fees remain competitive averaging, £10,800 per year at St Dominic’s and £12,500 per year at Birchfield, VAT included.”
The strong demand for their schools has enabled further growth. Birchfield Prep School, for instance, has expanded to include a senior school. In addition, despite keeping fees lower than average, the Hartlands have upheld their commitment to small class sizes, limiting them to no more than 22 for Senior School and 20 for Pre-Prep and Prep School. At St. Dominic’s, class sizes currently remain capped at 18, with two-form entry at senior level, allowing for additional students.
This balance of affordability, accessibility, and quality has made private education more inclusive without compromising on standards. St Philips Education exemplifies how innovative thinking and community-focused policies can make a significant difference, even amid economic challenges. Their success story offers a roadmap for sustaining private education in an increasingly competitive and regulated environment.
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Credits: Midlands Living Magazine