The Guernsey International Business Association (GIBA) strongly supports the proposition put forward by Blanchelande College, Elizabeth College, and The Ladies’ College to maintain funding at the current level, adjusted annually by RPIX.
Unlike the UK, c.30% of the island’s secondary school pupils are educated in the independent sector. The independent colleges offer many parents a choice in how and where their children are educated. A reduction or removal of funding would push more students into the State sector, increasing costs for taxpayers. Conversely, maintaining funding alleviates the pressure on State secondary schools, particularly at a time when the sector is facing challenges in teacher recruitment and retention.
In addition to making a critical contribution to our community through educating our local workforce, GIBA also believes a thriving education sector is essential for Guernsey’s ability to attract and retain talent, which directly impacts our competitiveness as a jurisdiction and long-term economic stability.
Guernsey’s economy relies heavily on the success of our finance industry, which contributes around 40% of our GDP. The island’s businesses are in constant competition with other jurisdictions to attract and retain skilled professionals, with factors like housing, education, connectivity and healthcare being key considerations for talent retention. For example, in Jersey, private education is available at a significantly lower cost due to larger government subsidies.
Subsidising independent education is a commonly used economic enabler around the world. Many leading economies—including the Nordic countries, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Malta, and the USA—offer some level and form of subsidy for independent education. This is because governments recognise the savings they provide to the state by reducing the burden on government-funded places while acknowledging that money spent on education benefits the long-term economic success of the country.
At a time of a decline in the working population and ageing demographics, Guernsey must ensure that its education system supports the island’s long-term economic sustainability. Cutting funding for independent colleges would undermine this goal. Instead, maintaining a stable and thriving independent education sector will support the economy and provide long-term benefits for the whole community.
GIBA – the Guernsey International Business Association