I have been making similar observations on this Forum for quite some time now. Perhaps the current review of the assessment process will address some of these inequities, but I'm not holding my breath - and any changes will come too late for Dr Mummy and other families against whom the current system discriminates.It is interesting that similar themes seem emerge which make the contribution feasible or not. Notably - low to middle income earners seem to suffer as a drop in tax credit,fr example, is not reflected in a drop in fees; living in parts of the country which are more expensive for the basics; other unaviodable costs that are not taken into account e.g essential work related costs and travel; having a mortgage that is high in relation to ones salary; and having other children at home. For oneself sacrificing all but the essentials maybe an option but when one has other young children this is neither possible nor fair. The fact that some parents are forced into remortgaging suggests that the assessment process does not fairly reflect individual family circumstances. This was not even an option open to myself as I have already done this to pay for essential maintenance!!
The CH website states that the school "offers a life-changing opportunity to boys and girls to study with other high achievers from all walks of life." I'm not sure that this claim is entirely justifiable when the assessment makes it impossible for increasing numbers of families to afford that opportunity. CH is looking to admit more and more wealthy pupils (is there still any cap on the percentage of pupils paying full fees, or will they now take as many as they can get?). The very poor, who are asked to pay little or no contribution, are still able to access the school, which is as it should be. But for the 'squeezed middle', those who work hard to support their families and who must budget very carefully to make an average income meet the spiralling costs of even basic necessities, the Foundation have a very unrealistic expectation of what is affordable.
It is very sad to see Dr Mummy conclude that "If I claimed off the state instead I would no doubt not have had to withdraw my daughter from CH!", but she's probably right. For children from many walks of life, this life-changing opportunity is simply not an option.
. I share your anguish!! My fees came back double those estimated by the R.R and I really don't know why!! I wonder after reading your post whether maybe they are already taking equity into account as I do have some equity in my house - but it is only a 2 bed terrace so I am hardly living a grandiose life style!! I am not the best person to advise as my experience has already been so negative but I will say that I may have sold the house....sold my body (hmmm wouldn't make a lot!!)....sold my soul to the devil had I not had another child at home who I need to consider as well!! This is all rather confusing 
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