Finance body backs grant-aided colleges in funding battle

The Guernsey International Business Association said it strongly supported the colleges’ argument to maintain the current level of grant funding from the taxpayer.

It said that choice and a ‘thriving’ education sector were important for the island’s ability to attract and retain talent, and highlighted that private education in Jersey was ‘significantly’ cheaper due to larger government subsidies.

‘Subsidising independent education is a commonly used economic enabler around the world,’ Giba said.

‘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 said its support for the colleges reflected both standards of education for the local workforce and being able to attract people to move to the island for work.

‘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.’