Education
Focus on Independent Schools Author: Julie Robinson, chief executive of the Independent Schools Council are not always available elsewhere. Schools that excel at nurturing sporting talent are able to offer excellent facilities and a variety of activities that are not easily accessible in other schools, such as sailing, climbing, fencing or horse riding. For children with a passion for acting or music, many independent schools offer well-resourced drama or music departments. There are lots of opportunities for pupils to get involved with
Every parent wants to give their child the best start in life, and this naturally includes choosing a school best suited to their child’s needs. For many families this can be a daunting task, especially those with younger children who will be taking their first steps into schooling. For a multitude of reasons, independent schools are the preferred option for many families. Over 532,000 pupils are currently enrolled in ISC member schools, the third highest level since records began in 1974 – so it’s clear that an independent education remains a popular choice. The independent sector encompasses a diverse range of schools and approaches, enabling parents to select the right environment for their child. Parents might choose an independent school for some or all of their child’s education, or in order to meet particular learning requirements. Independent schools vary significantly in size, from fewer than 20 pupils to over 2,400, although half of all schools have fewer than 300 pupils. Independent schools provide extra capacity through various specialisms ranging from singlesex education to full boarding – specialisms that
Top & Above: Felsted Preparatory School 33
