SHORTLIST CONSIDERATIONS

Important aspects to remember when applying to an independent school

SCHOLARSHIPS:

Independent schools can offer scholarships, granting discounted fees. If your child excels in a niche area, such as sport, it’d be wise to consider a school with excellent sporting facilities and coaching. Abbotsholme offers equestrian, sports, performing arts and academic scholarships.

The curriculum is tailored to the excellence of our scholars, so they can strive for success alongside their studies and timetable.

VISION, MISSION, ETHOS AND VALUES: As with mainstream schools, independent-school values are imperative in shaping the moral compass of the school and can be an indication of what’s expected on a daily basis from pupils, teachers and all stakeholders. The school should have a clear vision, mission, ethos and values which aren’t just practised daily, but shared with prospective families. These should also give you an idea of what its community is like and whether its values align with your own.

NUTRITION & WELLBEING:

One of the aforementioned contributing factors which may determine your shortlist should include school meals. A nutritious diet is key in education, so it’s vital to select a school that supports a healthy diet for your child. At Abbotsholme, the 70acre working farm provides our kitchen with produce for school meals, meaning fresh food is readily available and pupils understand the meaning of ‘farm to fork’.

Fresh air is also a worthy consideration. Being outdoors during the school day gives children the opportunity to ‘reset’, or simply offers them a change of scenery to keep them engaged. For younger pupils, a lot of learning comes from being out in nature, which is why Forest School is popular. Our school’s set in the countryside and outdoor education is part of our DNA, meaning pupils are continuously outside breathing in the fresh air.