Focus on Independent Schools

Author: Julie Robinson, chief executive of the Independent Schools Council

Every parent wants to give their child the best start in life, and this naturally includes choosing a school best suited to their child’s needs. For many families this can be a daunting task, especially those with younger children who will be taking their first steps into schooling. For a multitude of reasons, independent schools are the preferred option for many families. Over 532,000 pupils are currently enrolled in ISC member schools, the third highest level since records began in 1974 – so it’s clear that an independent education remains a popular choice.

The independent sector encompasses a diverse range of schools and approaches, enabling parents to select the right environment for their child. Parents might choose an independent school for some or all of their child’s education, or in order to meet particular learning requirements. Independent schools vary significantly in size, from fewer than 20 pupils to over 2,400, although half of all schools have fewer than 300 pupils. Independent schools provide extra capacity through various specialisms ranging from singlesex education to full boarding – specialisms that are not always available elsewhere. Schools that excel at nurturing sporting talent are able to offer excellent facilities and a variety of activities that are not easily accessible in other schools, such as sailing, climbing, fencing or horse riding. For children with a passion for acting or music, many independent schools offer well-resourced drama or music departments. There are lots of opportunities for pupils to get involved with

extra-curriculars, from Combined Cadet Force training to band practice – this gives children the chance to meet new people, develop their talents, and build their confidence.

Independent schools have the freedom to follow their own curriculum, which allows them to personalise learning and build assessments around pupils’ individual skill sets. This also enables schools to innovate and experiment with their academic programmes, providing pupils with enriching educational experiences. Another attractive feature of many independent schools is their smaller than average class sizes, with a pupil-teacher ratio of close to 9:1. This makes it easier for teachers to get to know each pupil, recognising who might need additional support in one area or challenging in another.

A common misconception about independent schools is that they are all highly selective – in fact, fewer than half are academically selective. Independent schools place great value on providing an all-around education, including opportunities outside the classroom and outstanding pastoral care. Recognising the importance of developing pupils’ soft skills, independent schools pride themselves on delivering high-quality character education and supporting wellbeing.

Independent schools are aware of their social responsibility and make a significant contribution to their local communities and the wider education system through meaningful partnership work. In collaboration with state schools and local organisations, independent schools work to broaden horizons, spread educational opportunity and promote civic duty. These partnerships take many different forms – from sharing resources and subject expertise to widening access to the arts. In recognition of the environmental threats facing our planet, sustainability has also become a key focus for many independent schools. Pupils and teachers alike are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint, learn about the key challenges related to climate change, and create initiatives centred around conservation. Independent schools also do their bit to support good causes; estimates suggest that ISC schools raised up to £10.5 million for charity last year.

Widening access to independent education remains a core focus for ISC schools, and they continue to aid social mobility through their bursary and scholarship programmes. Our annual Census shows that £455 million of means-tested fee assistance was provided in 2021, an increase of £15 million from the previous year. One in 12 pupils at ISC schools is on a means-tested bursary or scholarship, and nearly half of all pupils on means-tested bursaries have more than half of their fees remitted. Parents are encouraged to contact schools directly to learn more about the bursary provision available – this can be done via the ‘Find A School’ tool on our website, which allows users to search for independent schools by location, residency type, age range and more: www.isc.co.uk/schools

Top & Above: Millfield Prep School

The Independent Schools Council (ISC) brings together seven associations and four affiliate associations to represent almost 1,400 independent schools. These schools educate more than half-a-million children. Almost half of UK independent schools are ISC schools, educating around 80 per cent of all independent school children. To find out more about the breadth of UK independent schools, visit www.isc.co.uk.