Choosing the educational system to send your child to is an important decision. You want to make sure you are providing the best environment for your child to learn and grow. Depending on your situation, state or private schools could be the best option for you.
What is a state school?
State schools are paid for by the government, through taxation, are free to attend for students. Schools base admittance on the local catchment area, or sometimes on academic performance in an 11+ entrance exam (but not in Northamptonshire or Leicestershire). State schools in England must follow the National Curriculum, and often belong to Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) who have a centralised identity, and teach according a centrally proscribed curriculum.
What is an independent school?
Independent schools require parents to pay fees, which can be anything from £15,000 to over £50,000 per year. These schools often offer scholarships for students who are very able in academic studies, or have a particular skill in sports, arts or music. They also, generally, offer support via means-tested bursaries. Every school has its own processes for this, and different amounts are awarded. The Independent Schools Council represents them, and they don’t have to follow the National Curriculum.
About 6% of students in the UK attend independent schools which range from schools of less than 100 students, to large day or boarding schools of between 1,000 and 2,000 students.
Benefits of state school
The main benefit of state schools is the lack of fees and the requirement that the school cover a broad and coherent curriculum, enforced by the Department for Education. State schools, unless they are in counties with Grammar Schools, usually do not require your child to perform highly on academic entrance exams.
State educated schools allow your child to mix with peers from different backgrounds. This will set them up well for navigating society and teach them inclusivity and understanding.
Benefits of independent school
Independent schools offer a range of benefits. Class sizes will generally be smaller than the state sector (10 to 15 in a class, rather than over 30 in state). Academic results in the independent sector usually outperform the vast majority of state schools at GCSE and A level, and there is a similarly higher proportion of students from independent schools securing places at the most competitive universities on the hardest to get into courses.
Independent schools offer a more extensive range of extracurricular activities, with more facilities, trips, and societies to take part in. These allow your child to develop soft skills like public speaking, confidence, and team building which will be great for university and job applications.
Generally behaviour in independent (private) schools, inside class and out, are better and there are few problems involving bullying or discrimination.
Both schools can provide a good education and allow your child to achieve strong grades and non-academic skills. If independent school is the right choice for you, then Pitsford School offers a personal and bespoke education, situated in a beautiful rural campus which boasts state-of-the-art facilities and subject-specialist teachers. Call +44 (0)1604 880306 or email registrar@pitsfordschool.com to learn more and arrange a personal tour.
