New hope has been given to language schools in their fight against visa changes they claim could cost the industry millions of pounds.
Government restrictions aimed at stopping illegal immigrants from abusing the visa system came into force in March.
They require anyone wanting to study in theUKfor more than six months to prove they already speak GCSE-standard English.
Heads of language schools in Brighton and Hove, where the industry is estimated to generate £115 million for the economy each year, predict the consequences will be catastrophic, costing them up to 30% of their business.
But they have been given a boost after English UK, the umbrella body for schools, was given permission to challenge the changes in the High Court.
Mr Justice Collins granted leave for EnglishUKto argue its case last month and Home Secretary Alan Johnson declined to appeal its decision before the 21-day deadline.
This means both sides will meet in the High Court within the next few months.
If the court rules in English UK’s favour, the changes will be revoked and the next Government will be forced to go back to the drawing board.
Nichola Carter, partner at Penningtons Solicitors, which is representing English UK, said: “We will be pushing for the case to be heard as soon as possible because businesses are already losing student fees.”
At last month’s hearing, Mr Justice Collins appeared to sympathise with the plight of language schools, saying it was “difficult” to see how extending the level of English required could be justified.
Phil Hopkins, principal of the English Language Centre in Church Road, Hove, said he was already seeing fewer bookings.
He said: “I’m hopeful but I’m taking nothing for granted.”
Jes Camilleri, principal of EC Brighton, welcomed the court’s decision as “very good news”.
He added: “At least someone has listened to what language schools have been saying for the past couple of months.”
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