States to vote on independence for The Ladies' College

Tuesday, 6 October 2026 11:19

States members will vote on progressing a law change to so Ladies College can accept a gift that will save taxpayers' money.

Last month it was revealed a secret donor was giving the private school - and Elizabeth College - money that would replace their annual £2.2 million States funding.

Ladies College first needs full independence from the States, charitable status, and the sale of the land to the new entity.

A policy letter proposes this be done so grant funding can end on 1st September next year, or as soon as possible after that.

The legislation currently governing The Ladies' College would be repealed.

The Policy Letter also proposes that:

• Both Colleges will continue to provide statistical data on pupil numbers and categories, attainment and capacity, to enable the States to formulate informed education and social policy for the island.

• Both Colleges will continue to adopt and implement educational and safeguarding standards as set out in the Independent Schools Inspectorate Framework, or other comparable inspection framework.

• Grant funding to Blanchelande College will continue on the current terms, with the same notice period and the same maximum value.

Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, President of the Policy & Resources Committee, said:

"This exceptionally generous gift will give The Ladies' College and Elizabeth College long-term financial security without need of taxpayers’ support. We have responded swiftly but with careful thought and due diligence to take the steps necessary for the Colleges to become wholly independent of the States so they can accept the donor’s offer.

"From the States’ perspective, the practical steps to make this possible are set out in the Policy Letter and I am optimistic the Assembly will agree them."