Independent schools across Tayside have welcomed plans to postpone the cutting of their charity tax break status as the institutions deal with the financial fallout of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Scottish Government has announced that the stripping of the schools charity tax relief on business rates will be pushed back to April 2021 after originally planning to impose the new measures on September 1.
The controversial cuts have been widely criticised by the institutions who believe it will cost local communities millions of pounds.
Glenalmond College say the additional funds over the next eight months will help secure around 140 jobs in the rural Perthshire area.
Dr Michael Alderson, head of the school, said: “We are very mindful of the financial and other pressures faced by parents and we have been able to offer a fee reduction, but only through very careful planning and this has been helped by government support and the support of the wider Glenalmond community.
“The delay in removing rates relief has been very welcome recognition of our charitable activities, which include making our education accessible by supporting those in most need.
“The move will also help to secure employment at Glenalmond where we provide around 140 jobs in a rural area with few options for alternative work.”
Gareth Warren, the Rector of Morrison’s Academy in Crieff, said: “The last year has seen increases to pension contributions; significant and deserved, pay rises for teachers and the removal of business rates relief.
“A delay in the latter provides a better distribution of the financial impact of each measure upon the school.
“With regards to Covid-19 our first priority has been focused on the safety and health of our families; those affected by the virus, those that have lost loved ones and the many key workers that are working in the essential health services.
“The virus has undoubtedly impacted upon many of our families and the businesses they own or are employed by.
“As a school we established a contingency fund to ensure that every child was able to continue their education at Morrison’s Academy during the summer term.
“Our parent body has been particularly supportive of our stance and the focus on support.
“Consequently, all of our pupils have been able to remain at the school and receive the excellent education Morrison’s Academy is renowned for, albeit remotely.”
The High of Dundee Rector Lise Hudson added: “We welcome this relief which comes during what is a challenging time for us all.
“Along with the rest of the country, we are trying to understand and quantify what the current situation means for the school, our pupils, parents and staff in the short, medium and long-term.”
Education secretary and Perthshire North MSP, John Swinney, said the decision was made to help support the schools during the coronavirus pandemic.
“I am sure that this delay will be welcomed by independent schools and I hope that it will help ease the financial pressure being placed on these institutions by this current pandemic,” he added.
