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Choosing An Independent School : The Basics Explained

You can be baffled by the choices open to you if you decide to have your child educated privately, outside the British state system. At any stage of education, from pre-school to sixth firm, you can apply for a place at an independent school. On closer examination, there is huge diversity in what private schools offer in England. From arts-based, creative environments to temples of academia to faith schools, the choice is very wide indeed.

When choosing an independent school for your son or daughter there are many factors to take into consideration. The child’s character is of paramount importance. Is your child highly motivated, or easily bored? Are they outgoing and confident or reticent and shy? Are sports or creative subjects a particular interest? Does your child find concentrating in the classroom or reading particularly difficult? With guidance and support, you can find a private school which will make all the difference to your child’s education.

Academic standards are a key factor for those choosing an independent school. Excellent exam results are a matter of pride for most schools. Nowadays, league tables are published to enable parents to compare the performance of schools and the grades achieved by their pupils. When state schools in their area are ranked low down in the league tables, parents often send their children to a private school.

Sometimes, independent schools are chosen because of its particular style or atmosphere, or because it is single sex, faith based, dedicated to sports or has some other specialism. These schools often have a more focused approach to education, and are able to apply resources to develop each child in their care.

Not everyone chooses to send their child to a private school from an early age. It is often the case that children start their education at their local primary and secondary schools then move into the independent sector. Sometimes this is because they are not reaching their academic potential, or are being distracted from their studies. Parents may send their children to private school for GCSE re-takes and A –levels. There are many excellent independent six form colleges, and the system is flexible enough to accommodate most requirements.

Sometimes children who are performing well and reaching their potential in the state system suddenly lose their motivation. In these circumstances, it is best to take them out of the environment they no longer enjoy, and find somewhere else which can give them what they need to succeed again. The expense of sending them to a private school can be seen as a worthwhile investment in their future success and employment opportunities.

Fee-paying establishments offer a higher standard of facilities to children and smaller class sizes – attributes valued by most people. As they are able to pay higher wages than the state system, they are often able to attract better teachers. People consider that these important educational benefits are worth paying for.

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