There is a huge choice of schools in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, taking pupils from first school age to 18. More than 600 of these take pupils who board. After going through the United Kingdom independent school system, a child will not only have benefited from one of the best educational experiences in the world, but will also be a fluent speaker of English.
You can start your search with ISC (Independent Schools Council) which has a comprehensive database of member schools. Other useful sites are: www.isbi.com and www.boardingschools.hobsons.com, British Accreditation Council (BAC): www.the-bac.org, Conference for Independent Further Education: www.getthegrade.co.uk
Tables and information about schools results and performances are available on the Department for Education and Skills page: Performance Tables
It is recommended that parents accommpanied by their child visit the school in advance. Parents should be assured that their child will be comfortable in the school environment.
- read carefully the school's prospectus before visiting the school. Please remember that this is the school's main promotional document and it should reflect the way the school would like to be regarded by others
- ask about any hidden costs: some schools include all taxes, others don't
- visit the school during the normal programme (not when they are on holiday)
- try to talk to students without the presence of a teacher or the school's principal. Most schools have no objection to this.
You have to know in advance what type of discipline you prefer for your child. Try to ensure that there is a good balance between the formal and the informal behaviour in the chosen school.
Exam results may not be the best way to appreciate the school's performance. Try to ensure that you have chosen the most appropriate school according to your child's skills and talents.
Ask for information regarding the school-parents relationship. Parents should receive regularly information about their children and they should be aware of the channels they can use when they are worried about any aspect regarding their child's education.
British Council Education Information sheets
British Council Education Information web site
British Accreditation Council for Independent Further and Higher Education
Independent Schools Examinations Board
Independent Schools Council
Scottish Council for Independent Schools
The Conference for Independent Further Education
For further information, please contact us at contact@britishcouncil.ro.
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