Independent school fees may seem onerous, but there are many financial paths open to families, writes Simon balderson, Deputy Head Academic of Westonbirt School, Gloucestershire
At first glance, the cost of independent education looks prohibitively expensive for all but the most well off. However, when one considers the various benefits provided in the all-encompassing approach to education embodied by many independent schools, especially those with a boarding community, it can be significantly more cost-effective than it might initially appear. Add to that the discounts offered by virtually all independent schools as independent school bursaries and scholarships, as well as funding available from charitable organisations, and the entire proposition seems much more enticing. The fee structure at most independent schools is fairly similar, usually being charged by the term. Some charge a flat fee, whereas others increase as the child moves through the school. Whatever the structure, it?s often worth speaking to the bursar, if a different payment plan would suit you. Schools will often try their best to be accommodating and, particularly over the recent pandemic, many will have offered discounts, established hardship funds, or deferred payments for families who needed to respond to financial changes brought about by a change in circumstances.
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The overall cost of education is always worth considering, when thinking about whether to send your child to an indepe...