Would you go for a fixed or variable cash ISA right now?

[DownWithTrump]

I want to put some cash away in a cash ISA for the next 12 months. I will have to access it during that period (it's for school fees) but it would earn more than it does sitting in my bank account. Checking that I can withdraw and that interest will be paid monthly etc - but would you choose a (higher %) variable rate or a (lower %) fixed rate right now?

Unless you can guarantee you wont need to remove any of it during the fixed period then go for the variable. Most fixed periods don't allow for taking anything out until the fix is up. Usually a much lower rate of interest would be applied.