Over 30 UK private schools bought by Chinese investors in past decade sparking scrutiny

Over the past decade, more than 30 UK independent schools have been purchased by Chinese investors, raising alarm among British officials about potential ideological influence from the Chinese Communist Party.

Data compiled by Venture Education shows that in 2023 alone, five UK schools were acquired by Chinese entities, adding to the 17 acquired between 2017 and 2020.

These purchases involve a mix of boarding and day schools, with 11 boarding and 19 mixed day schools among the 30. Most are located in England, with others in Wales and Scotland.

A key driver behind the acquisitions is the growing demand among affluent Chinese families for an English-style education abroad.

According to Venture Education, many UK schools have seized this opportunity by offering Chinese GCSEs or celebrating festivals like Chinese New Year to attract overseas students.

At the same time, VAT increases on private school fees under the Labour government have strained finances, making some schools susceptible to acquisition.

Bright Scholar, a major operator of K-12 schools in China backed by property tycoon Country Garden, leads the wave of investment.

Notable buys include The Guildhouse School, Cats Colleges, Bournemouth Collegiate School, Bosworth Independent College, and St Michael’s School. In July 2019, it acquired the CATS Colleges network in a £150 million deal.

Supporters argue these investments offer lifelines to financially distressed schools. Barnaby Lenon, former headmaster of Harrow School and chair of the Independent Schools Council, noted that Chinese investment helps keep British institutions afloat and brings global perspectives.

However, critics including MPs and national security sources warn that China’s move may be strategic. One senior government official described it as ideological warfare, saying that China is targeting education early to influence future generations.

Fear also stems from a lack of regulatory oversight, since China isn't listed on the UK’s enhanced foreign influence registration scheme (FIRS).

Concerns stretch beyond ownership. Some experts highlight that schools may engage in self-censorship or sanitize curriculum to align with Chinese sensibilities—examples include downplaying visits from the Dalai Lama and celebrating politically safe events.

Despite these apprehensions, the UK government maintains that all independent schools must adhere to British values —fundamental rights, democracy, rule of law, and tolerance as enforced by the Department for Education. Regulatory intervention will follow if standards are breached.