What you need to know when considering independent schools

When selecting an independent school for your child there are many things to consider. Independent schools provide an outstanding education with pupils guaranteed a broad and stimulating experience. But diversity is their strength, and each institution has a unique offering.

So, what do you need to think about when picking an independent school?

Your child’s strengths

Just as each school has its own identity, every pupil is different. Your child may excel academically and be destined to make a breakthrough in particle physics or write a Booker Prizewinning novel. Perhaps they have a sporting prowess and the correct tutelage could see them representing Scotland in football, rugby or athletics. Others may have a talent for music or art and will be keen to see afterschool clubs, classes and groups to help them realise their potential.

All of these things can be catered for, but one school may provide a more tailored offering for your child than another. Look at what schools have in the way of extra-curricular activities, what their ethos is and where alumni have excelled after leaving.

Additionally, you’ll need to consider the personality of your child. Depending on whether they are confident or shy, they will have different needs. Some will need to be constantly challenged and stimulated while others might want some additional support. Some may be more suited to a small school while others will thrive in a larger environment.

The beauty of independent schools is they provide the staffing and resources to nurture your child according to their needs.

Subjects and qualifications

Independent schools in Scotland offer a wider range of qualifications than the state sector. Your child may be able to take a mix of SQAs, sit A-Levels or the International Baccalaureate. Consider this and what you think will best suit your child when picking a school.

Similarly, independent schools provide a wider range of subjects with options such as Latin, Mandarin, classics and philosophy. Have a look at the different curriculums and think what most appeals to your child.

Cost

Fees can vary quite widely across the independent school sector so take your budget into account. It may also be worth investigating whether you can get some support with the cost of your child’s education. The Scottish Council of Independent Schools says 500 children received a free place in 2022/23 with one in four getting some sort of assistance with fees. There are educational grants on offer and charitable trusts can often help out.

Location

What sort of environment would your child most thrive in? Would they like a quieter, rural setting with immediate access to the countryside or would a school in the big city be more to their liking? These are also things you should think about and can be easily catered for in the independent school sector. If you’re going with the more standard route of day schooling then obviously where you live will dictate a lot of this for you. But if you are willing to consider one of the schools which offer a boarding facility then you will have more choice.

The beauty of independent schools is they provide the staffing and resources to nurture your child according to their needs

Check them out

The best way to know if a school is the right one for your family is to go and see them for yourself. All independent schools will offer open days. You can find out when they are on their websites. You’ll be able to hear from the head teacher and get a tour of the school and its facilities from pupils. Once you’ve narrowed your choice down it might also be worth going to see a normal school day. Staff will be delighted to arrange that for you if you contact them.

So now you know what to consider, it’s time to look around and open up a whole new world of education to your child.