Would it be unreasonable to ask questions to a private school about their finances?

[Limpopdotoy]

We’re thinking of transferring DD to a new school. She’s currently in Year 1 and her current school are making changes that we’re really unhappy about, both in terms of the changes themselves but also the way in which they’re being implemented.

We’re looking at two other local state schools with places, but another option is a small private school in the area. It has excellent results and reputation and we could, with some rejigging and belt tightening, afford it.

I’m aware that private schools are up against it financially, and several have closed. I obviously wouldn’t want to send DD to a private school only for it to close at some point.

Appreciating that no one had a crystal ball, would it unreasonable to ask the private school about their financial position, whether numbers are falling, etc. so we can take an informed view of what to do?

I don’t want to get into a state v private debate; to be honest if we like the state schools, that’s where she’ll be going. I want to keep our options open though.

Numbers are typically published in the end of year report from the board of governors - available online for most schools. I wouldn’t want to come across too pushy as a private school are well within their rights to simply refuse you a place if they feel you would be a PITA, to be frank!

Yes, that was my other concern, I don’t want to seem to be a pain, especially when they can pick and choose. Thanks for the heads up regarding the numbers.

You’ll be able to find their financial reports online.

They are a business, they will almost not certainly tell you if they do have declining numbers and/or financial concerns because the minute that gets out, realistically they’re finished (because they’ll stop gaining pupils). So there’s no point asking, but definitely look at their financials online - this was something we did before moving our daughter’s school this year, for the same reasons as you.

I think it's entirely reasonable to research the potential for a private school to stay open for the duration you want to attend. It's by no means a given these days with falling birth rates and rising fees. You can certainly ask how many pupils are in each year group and look at their margins.