The article which identifies that independent school no longer represents affluence (written by an independent consumer) explains perfectly the situation.
Families should be aware at point of considering private school that not everyone is wealthy, you will ‘rub shoulders’ with incredibly ‘ordinary’ people.
Data from the ISC proves that 1/3 one third of private school families are on fee assistance (cannot afford to be there subsidised by school money, which you will contribute to, annual fee hikes) thing figure is growing, independent schools are becoming poorer year on year.
I want families to really think and understand “beyond the labels”
If attending private school will push you into hardship, your kids living on rations, going without (this absolutely is happening!) Do not be fooled by the hard-sell of independent schools. Their very survival, ability to operate and keep the lights on is dependent on recruitment (they’ll tell you anything, sell you the dream).
Standards are slipping as they are forced to economise and cut-back, trim the fat. This is reality.
There are wealthier families, wealthier children attending U.K. state schools, there are higher achieving children attending state schools. University admissions easier to access for all.
Before you sign, contracted to £250+ per child it is essential to research. If you’re paying the full sticker price it is no use to you seeking counsel from any of the 1/3 one third on discounts, bursary, staff fee remission, of course they’re going to tell you it’s outstanding!