Independent Schools Council » Boarding Schools

Welcome one, welcome all

Liam Butler — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 10:04:39 +0000

Independent schools have always welcomed students from outside the UK and today is no different. This thriving sector is continuing to welcome students from all over the world providing innovative ways of delivering a British education to thousands of students each year. In actual fact the number of pupils with parents abroad has increased year on year by over 5%!

The Independent Schools Council 2011 annual census documented over 24,500 non-British pupils in ISC schools from countries like Hong Kong, Russia, Japan, and the Middle East. The independent sector offers a wealth of opportunities for students with English as a second language with Cambridgeshire, amongst other counties, leading the way.

Independent schools cater for all types of students with International Schools, schools with International Study centres and those employing EFL/ESL professionals particularly successful at providing the support required for pupils from outside the UK. Mainstream independent schools in Cambridgeshire also educate pupils from outside the UK giving them a solid British education. There are a number of schools up and down the country with International study centres offering intensive English courses that, once completed, will allow the student to fully integrate with the rest of the school gaining valuable GCSE, IB, and/or A-level qualifications.

British education is envied the world over so it’s no wonder that thousands of students choose to spend time in the independent sector. Independent schools offer a wealth of opportunities for international students with the various curriculums on offer being one big selling point. Students have the option of studying for IB, IGCSE, A-Levels or the Pre-U choosing an education that fits their specific needs. With a plethora of options for those wishing to learn English and study at a British school it only stands to reason that the independent sector is continuing to attract healthy numbers of students from outside the UK.

Searching for school by county?

Rosie Keeling — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 10:41:13 +0000

Are you looking for an independent school for your child in a particular county? If so then why not try our County School Search.

The County School Search allows you to search for schools by country: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, as well as search for schools in one or more English counties i.e. Devon, Leicestershire etc. In addition you can further refine your school search by selecting options such as day, full boarding or weekly / flexible boarding as well as gender such as boys school, girls schools, boys (some girls), girls some boys, coeducational and boys and girls taught separately. Finally there is the option to refine your search by selecting the age group your child will be going into from nursery, pre-prep, prep, senior and sixth form.

Try the County School Search

If you want to immediately see all ISC independent schools in a particular county then alternatively you can click on the relevant links below:

If you have any queries relating to looking for independent schools then please contact our free ISC information & advice service (ISCias) by calling 0845 SCHOOLS (7246657) or send an email to information@isc.co.uk and we will be very happy to help you. We also have lots of useful information in our Parent Zone.

London Borough School Search (Independent schools)

Rosie Keeling — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 12:39:18 +0000

The ISC website contains several school searches for parents interested in independent schools, including a Postcode Search, the Find an ISC School Search, which allows parents to search by factors such as location, gender, age range and day/ boarding school and finally the Personalised Advanced School Search, which is a more sophisticated search enabling parents to search by a number of factors including those in the Find an ISC School Search but also including subjects, sports, examinations, religious affiliation and school fee assistance.

If you wish to find all independent schools within a particular London borough you can use the Postcode Search or view a list of all schools by London borough. Alternatively, click on the relevant London borough link below:

Once you click on a link for a particular borough you will see for each school within that borough a short description showing which of the following the school caters for:

GENDER: Boys, Boys (some girls) Girls, Girls (some boys), Boys and girls taught separately, Coeducational.

DAY/BOARDING: Day School, Boarding School, Weekly or Flexible Boarding School

AGE RANGE: Nursery, Pre Prep, Prep, Senior, Sixth Form

You can also click on the school name to go to a full profile page for that school providing lots of useful information and a link to the school’s website.

If you are looking for schools and would like some advice please contact our free ISC information and advice service on 0845 SCHOOLS (7246657). Why not also visit our Parent Zone. The Parent Zone gives information on a wide range of topics, examples including:

School fee assistance – information on types of school fee assistance such as bursaries and scholarships.

Boarding schools – interested in finding our about boarding school options?

School Open Day Search – search for school open days by school location and whether the school caters for boarding and or day as well as age range and child gender catered for.

A Bright Spark: ‘Gifted and Talented’ in the Independent Sector

Liam Butler — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:14:26 +0000

‘Gifted and Talented’ (G&T) children are defined as those who have one or more abilities developed significantly ahead of their year group or have the potential to develop these abilities. Helping Students achieve their full potential is certainly nothing new to Independent Schools but it seems that many are employing new and innovative ways to constantly challenge and engage those classed as ‘gifted and talented’. Provision for G&T pupils in schools, including those represented by the Independent Schools Council (ISC), can consist of master classes and competitions which are often separate from classroom provision, and mostly centred on mathematics, sport and music.

In the state sector students identified under the G&T programme qualify for extra support in their particular subject, whilst academically able students may be fast-tracked to GCSEs a year or so early. In the Independent sector pupils already receive more hours of direct teaching and many schools, especially those with large boarding numbers, have school on a Saturday morning. “Gifted” is generally defined as the top 5-10% of the school population in academic subjects and “Talented” the top 5-10% in other subjects. It should be remembered that these terms do not relate entirely to mainstream academic subjects. They can also refer to ability in such things as expressive arts, sport and music. ISC schools have some of the best theatres, sports facilities and music centres in the country so it comes as no shock to hear of pupils achieving a high standard in the expressive arts. Independent schools have been encouraged in recent years to develop their own G&T policies alongside their own curricula in order to make sure pupils are being supported and nurtured from an early age.

It is interesting to consider how schools around the world deal with G&T pupils. In the US, the model is based firmly on test scores whereas China takes the opposite approach, as did eastern European countries before the collapse of the Soviet Union. There, “children’s palaces” provide free after school tuition in music, art and academic subjects to everyone. This approach uses the children’s natural enthusiasm, and ensures that it is not just those with ambitious families who receive extra help. In western terms, Britain’s interest is comparatively unusual because many European countries, including Italy, France and the Netherlands, don’t do much at all. The Scandinavians appear to do very little yet they always score well in international comparisons of academic performance.

It is not statutory for schools to have a policy on G&T children. However, many do as they are useful reference points when supported by all staff and the Governing Body in a school.

Independent schools will often run their own initiatives enabling students to develop their skills outside the normal GSCE and A-Level curriculums. ISC schools have fantastic facilities and small class sizes allowing for a more bespoke tailor-made education for each pupil. This means that independent schools are leading the way when it comes to nurturing those deemed ‘Gifted’ or ‘Talented’.

One of the reasons parents continue to choose an independent education for their child is thanks to high teaching standards and this clearly reflects in the exam grades that our schools post year after year. In 2008 over half of A Level entries from pupils at ISC schools were awarded a grade A. Also, pupil/teacher ratios continue to fall in ISC schools reflecting many schools’ commitment to teaching a wide range of subjects even if class sizes are small. There is now one teacher to every ten pupils allowing children to receive a uniquely supported and bespoke education. Independent schools are excellent at providing breadth of education as well as flexibility. It is evident that Independent schools are keen to support all of their pupils and not just the top 5%. The unique and flexible approach to education is demonstrated by choice of more than one curriculum in the 6th form such as the International Baccalaureate and Pre-U, allowing parents to pick the school and style of education that best suits their child. Thanks to the flexibility of not being tied to the national curriculum or Local Authorities ISC schools have been some of the first to adopt the IB and Pre-U qualifications, the latter being is a 16+ course designed to prepare students for university. Independent schools offer an array of choices for parents when it comes to curricula and qualifications as well as ‘Gifted and Talented’ programmes and it’s up to parents to do the research and pick the one that will best suit their child. The one-size-fits-all approach to education is long gone in the independent sector and it’s now up to the parent to choose the right school for their child.

For free impartial information from ISCias (ISC information and advice service) on all types of independent schools including both day and boarding schools, you can call 0845 SCHOOLS (7246657) or email information@isc.co.uk. We are available to help week-days 9-5.

By Liam Butler – Senior Information Officer

Liam Butler works for ISCias (Independent Schools Council information & advice service) giving information to parents about Independent schools.

Search for school job vacancies using ISC’s new job search

Rosie Keeling — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 10:13:19 +0000

Search for jobs

ISC have launched a new job search for individuals looking for a job in an independent school. Job vacancies cover all school positions including teaching and non-teaching jobs.

Job seekers are able to specify the type of job they are looking for by selecting a variety of options. Options are as follows:

Region
Allows job seeker to select and particular regions they are interested in. i.e. London, Sussex, Kent and Hertfordshire could be selected.

Job Type
Allows job seeker to select the type of role that they are looking for i.e. Head, Bursar, Teacher, Teaching Assistant, Head of Sixth Form, and Head of Boarding House etc.

Subject
Allows job seeker to select any subjects that they want to teach i.e. science, music, maths, English etc.

Education Level
Allows the job seeker to select the age range they are interested in. i.e. Nursery / Pre Prep, Junior / Prep, Senior and Sixth Form.

Contract Type
Allows the job seeker to select whether they wish to work full time or part time.

Contract Term
Allows the job seeker to select whether they are looking for a permanaent or temporary job.

NQTs considered?
Allows newly qualified teachers to see which job vacancies they will be considered for.

Teacher Taster Days
A job in teaching is a challenging and rewarding career option. If you are interested in a career in teaching in an independent school then why not attend one of the teacher taster days being offered by ISC schools. A list of ISC schools offering teacher taster days is available here.

Teacher taster days are designed for undergraduates or post graduates who are interested in teaching; teachers in the state sector who would like to find out more about teaching in the independent sector; and individuals interested in a career change.

We also have information on what it is like to teach in the independent sector here.

By Rosie Keeling – Digital Content Manager

Independent Schools – A Well Rounded Education

Liam Butler — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 15:22:12 +0000

Over 500,000 children benefit from an independent education in one of ISC’s 1276 member schools. Independent schools offer a wealth of facilities and high teaching standards that enable students to achieve great results year after year. Independent schools are in the unique position to provide a truly bespoke education for your child.

Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision that takes plenty of time and research. Thankfully help is at hand for parents in the form of the Independent Schools Council information advice service (ISCias). ISCias has a free helpline, 0845 SCHOOLS (7246657), that gives free impartial information and advice to parents.

Results
One of the reasons parents continue to choose an independent education for their child thanks to high teaching standards and this clearly reflects in the grades that our schools post year after year. In 2008 over half of A Level entries from pupils at ISC schools were awarded a grade A. Also, pupil/teacher ratios continue to fall in ISC schools reflecting many schools’ commitment to teaching a wide range of subjects even if class sizes are small. There is now one teacher to every ten pupils allowing children to receive a uniquely supported and bespoke education. Independent schools are excellent at providing breadth of education as well as flexibility.

There are now over 40 ISC schools that offer the International Baccalaureate allowing parents to pick the style of education that best suits their child. Thanks to the flexibility of not being tied to the national curriculum or Local Authorities ISC schools are also some of the first to adopt the new Pre-U exam which is a 16+ course designed to prepare students for university. Independent schools offer an array of choices for parents when it comes to curricula and qualifications and it’s up to parents to do the research and pick the one that will best suit their child. The one-size-fits-all approach to education is long gone in the independent sector and it’s now up to the parent to choose the right school for their child.

Facilities and Extra-Curricular
In 2007/08 ISC schools spent nearly 300 million pounds on new buildings demonstrating their commitment to constant improvement of facilities for pupils. Total spending on facilities and equipment stood at nearly 700 million pounds, roughly equating to roughly £1,400 per pupil. However, it’s not just academic facilities such as ICT centres, Science laboratories and state of the art classrooms that schools are committed to improving. With great sporting facilities too, schools can offer everything from athletics, rugby and football to squash, tennis and lacrosse. Independent schools are committed to providing children with a rounded education filled with both sporting and academic successes. Indeed many ISC schools have produced some of the best sports men and women in recent memory. The 2008 Beijing Olympics was dominated by Independent school educated stars such as Chris Hoy and Ben Ainslie. The England rugby team also boasts a hoard of Independent School alumni, Jonny Wilkinson, Matthew Tait and Lewis Moody to name but a few.

Many children also take advantage of various Cadet Force initiatives, such as Combined Cadet Force, which teach leadership and team work. Many schools even offer a BTEC in leadership as a result of pupils’ participation in CCF. The school day doesn’t have to begin at 9 and end at 5 and many parents choose a weekly or flexible boarding option, allowing their children to take full advantage of the after school activities that are on offer. Students are not confined to the school premises either as schools are very keen to organise trips abroad for history, geography and modern foreign language purposes. Pick up any school’s newsletter and you’ll find details of groups of students trekking off to some far flung destination.

IPSOS Mori
A recent survey by Ipsos MORI found Independent education to be more popular than ever. Nearly three in five of all parents would send their child to Independent school if they could afford it. This is the highest level since the survey began in 1997, up 20% on the last survey in 2004. While ‘better standards of education’ continues to be the prime factor for parents wanting to send their children to Independent schools, ‘better discipline’ more than doubled in popularity rising to second place above ‘smaller class sizes’.

Is there help with school fees
More than one in three pupils at ISC schools receives assistance with fee costs with four out of five of these awards coming directly from the school itself. Indeed, most ISC schools offer bursaries, scholarships or both.

Scholarships tend to be linked to the ability of the child whether it is academic, sporting, music or drama. The best way to ascertain availability and eligibility is to contact the school directly. They are more than happy to discuss with you the options available.

Bursaries, on the other hand, tend to be means-assessed on a financial basis and will require the parent or guardian to fill out a financial declaration to establish whether the student meets the necessary criteria.

The Parent Zone – is a great resource for information on independent schools around the UK, and can be used to find schools local to you that match your criteria. By clicking ‘School Search’ you can also find out if the school offers bursaries and / or scholarships.

So why choose an Independent School?
Education isn’t a one-size-fits-all affair and thankfully independent schools come in all shapes and sizes. The independent sector gives parents the opportunity to choose a school that is right for their child. Whether it is the breadth and flexibility of the curriculum that appeals or perhaps the extra curricular activities, you can be assured that your child will receive a well rounded education helping them to achieve their full potential.

By Liam Butler – Information Officer

Liam Butler works for ISCias (Independent Schools Council information & advice service) giving information to parents about Independent schools.

More information
Advantages of independent schools

The School Open Day Season is upon us!

Liam Butler — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 14:04:15 +0000

The try-before-you-buy aspect of schools flinging their doors open to prospective parents is great for both experienced and non-experienced parents. With the school open day season officially upon us they have cemented themselves as an essential part of the process of looking for a school.

ISC now has a school open day search facility alerting you to search for open days in your area. Visit our school open day search here.

Schools are becoming more and more flexible and the term ‘school open day’ has become a fluid concept. Prospective pupils and parents are now invited to interactive classroom sessions, school tours, music evenings, lunch with the head as well as a host of activities designed to show the school at its best. When using our school open day search facility be aware that some schools require parents to book their place, others are simply a ‘pop-along’ affair. The ISC website’s Parents Zone has a useful section giving general advice about what to look for and questions to ask at a school open day.

If you are a parent and are worried about making the right choice for your child the best thing is simply to start researching schools and to go along to open days.

For free impartial information from ISCias (ISC information and advice service) on all types of independent schools including both day and boarding schools, you can call 0845 SCHOOLS (7246657) or email information@isc.co.uk. We are available to help week-days 9-5.

ISCias Information Officer – Helping parents find independent day and boarding schools

Liam Butler — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:23:46 +0000

ISCias is a FREE information and advice service for parents giving general information about accredited independent schools. ISCias deals with around 800 queries each month and that figure continues to grow!

My role as ISCias Information officer is to answer queries from parents and schools on the 0845 SCHOOLS (7246657) number as well as respond to email enquiries from information@isc.co.uk. Anyone can call or email ISCias about Independent Schools, boarding schools, preparatory schools as well as to gather information regarding scholarships and bursaries.

The ISC website, particularly the Parents Zone section, is a great resource that all parents are encouraged to access – why not have a look yourself!

As well as a vast amount of written material from prep schools to special educational needs it is also home to the ‘Find an ISC school’ search facility. Parents can use this to find appropriate accredited ISC schools that meet their requirements. Each school has a unique page with a link to their school inspection report, contact details as well as subjects taught, activities, facilities and much more. There is plenty of information to help a parent as they start to look for schools for their child. The advanced personalised school search is very popular

Whether you need information about preparatory schools or schools catering for pupils who are slightly older, perhaps schools with sixth forms, ISCias can help by giving you a list for you to consider. There are currently over 66,000 boarders in ISC schools and ISCias are happy to provide advice about boarding schools as well as day schools.

So whether you need general information about ISC schools, Common Entrance Exams, Scholarships or a list of specific independent schools that meet your needs then don’t hesitate to give us a call on 0845 SCHOOLS (7246657) or send an email to information@isc.co.uk - it’s FREE and impartial.

You’ll never be bored at boarding school

Rudi Eliott Lockhart — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 12:57:12 +0000

Boarding school is a popular option. Whether it’s due to the ‘Harry Potter’ effect, with children keen to go away to boarding school after reading about Hogwarts, or due to the efforts made to advertise the wide range of school fee assistance offered by many ISC schools in the form of bursaries and scholarships, there are now over 67,000 pupils at ISC member schools who are boarders: on a like-for-like basis this represents a 0.4% increase on 2007.

While pupils might not get to study charms and potions or get to play quidditch, the range of subjects and activities at ISC boarding schools is impressive. Pupils can try their hand at anything from orienteering to pottery while studying subjects as diverse as Mandarin, astronomy and medieval history. Different boarding schools cater for different needs, and the diversity of schools is one of the great strengths of independent boarding schools: whatever a child’s interests, there’s probably a perfect school for them within the ISC. But for all this variety, all of these schools have a common care and concern for each individual child, and a commitment to their happiness and to nurture their talents.

One of the great things about boarding schools is that everyone is on site all the time. It means there are no long journey times to and from school each day, so no time is lost, and it means that it’s easy for any pupil to join in with anything that happens after hours. So whether it’s a sport practice, orchestra rehearsal or preparation for a play, all the pupils are on the school grounds in the evenings to take part. Living together on the school site also helps to foster strong friendships among pupils, many of which can last a lifetime.

Most boarders are at secondary schools, although there are still over 22,000 children aged 13 or under who board at ISC schools. Younger boarders at preparatory schools are likely to find themselves sharing a large bedroom with half a dozen or so others, but they will have their own private space as well, probably with a wardrobe and locker and perhaps a built-in desk. This combination of private and personalised space and company is at the core of boarding school life: children are able to build their sense of independence and yet learn to belong to a large and supportive community.

Sixth form boarding is very popular: by this age parents may be more confident that their children are less dependent on home and family while the children enjoy the ‘half-way house’ between home and university. At a boarding school there’s plenty of support from teachers and other pupils, but there’s also every encouragement for children to take care of themselves and take responsibility for their own actions to a much greater degree than at home. Children leave boarding schools with greater self-confidence and increased maturity, ready to take advantage of every opportunity to come their way.

Search for ISC boarding schools

More information on boarding schools
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Weekly or flexible boarding