A snapshot of the UK’s independent schools sector reveals growth and self-confidence.
UK independent schools now educate a record 536,109 pupils at 1,364 Independent Schools Council member schools. This is up from 529,164 in 2018.
This year’s annual report from the Independent Schools Council also highlights an increase in the number of pupils from European Economic Area (EEA) countries despite Brexit uncertainty.
Key highlights:
Globally conscious
ISC chairman, Barnaby Lenon, said: “While most independent schools are small schools serving their local community, some attract pupils of many different nationalities and these young people have a positive influence on our ability to understand other cultures as well as the country’s economy and our intellectual base.
“In the midst of Brexit it is surprising to see an increase in the number of EEA pupils at ISC schools. Clearly much value is placed on the broad all-round education independent schools offer, their inclusive environments, and commitment to supporting the development of globally conscious young people”.
Improving educational outcomes for all
Julie Robinson, ISC chief executive, said: “Independent schools provide capacity, variety and flexibility in our education system. Pressure on class sizes in state schools is eased, and saves the taxpayer £3.5billion each year.
“The 84,000 SEND pupils identified in the census shows the importance of having schools that can offer the kind of specialist support that might not otherwise be available or accessible.
“ Joint working between state and independent schools is developing, with projects becoming ever more effective and impactful. More than 11,000 partnership projects were recorded this year, all of which create new learning and development opportunities for those involved.”
Partnership case study
Benenden School in Kent works with The John Wallis Church of England Academy for many years. The academy’s principal, John McParland, said: “Our strong and successful partnership with Benenden School has grown from strength to strength over the last nine years.
“There are many mutual benefits, such as Benenden sixth form students mentoring our Year 11 GCSE students, subject leaders meeting to share expertise and resources and the heads of both schools being on each other’s governing bodies working together to monitor and improve teaching and learning in both schools.
“I would strongly encourage other state and independent schools to get involved in partnership, in the interests of the wellbeing and education of their students as there will be many gains and benefits for the students, schools and for society.”
The Impact of Independent Schools on the UK Economy” report by Oxford Economics
Findings of the 2018 report: