What is an independent school?

An independent school has the freedom to set its own curriculum and freedom in the choice of its pupils. Independent schools are not dependent on Government or Local Authority finance. All ISC member schools meet this definition, which is internationally recognised. In the United States, Washington DC defines independent schools in very similar terms: "Schools that are independent in governance and finance. Independent schools are free to define their own mission and establish their own expectations for teacher credentials and student performance." Wikipedia defines independent schools as: "not dependent upon national or local government for financing its operation and instead operated by tuition charges, gifts, and perhaps the investment yield of an endowment." The main advantage of independent schools is their ability to concentrate on meeting the needs and aspirations of their pupils, rather than spending too much time on Government-imposed targets. ISC schools have an excellent ...  more

An independent school has the freedom to set its own curriculum and freedom in the choice of its pupils. UK independent schools are not dependent on Government or Local Authority finance. All ISC member schools meet this definition, which is internationally recognised. In the United States, Washington DC defines independent schools in very similar terms: "Schools that are independent in governance and finance. Independent schools are free to define their own mission and establish their own expectations for teacher credentials and student performance." Wikipedia defines independent schools as: "not dependent upon national or local government for financing its operation and instead operated by tuition charges, gifts, and perhaps the investment yield of an endowment." The main advantage of UK independent schools is their ability to concentrate on meeting the needs and aspirations of their pupils, rather than spending too much time on Government-imposed targets. ISC schools have an ...  more

An independent school is a private, usually non-profit, school governed by a board of trustees. Each is unique in terms of its mission and culture. This variety allows families to choose the environment that best meets the needs of their child. Independent schools are financed primarily by tuition payments, charitable contributions, and endowment revenue. Generally, they receive little, if any, government funding. Fairchester Independent schools are accredited by CAIS (Connecticut Association of Independent Schools) and NYSAIS (New York State Association of Independent Schools) which hold our schools to rigorous standards of excellence.  more