The English independent schools sector, one of the most historic
and well-reputed in the world, is at a fork in the road. After
decades of fluctuating political pressure and public support, it
has become clear that the future for the sector will not be able
to look the same as its past. A new path has to be chosen and a
vision articulated for the purpose of independent schooling, for
how it can thrive, and for how it can best contribute to the
whole school system.
The Commission on the Future for Independent Schools does this.
The Commission uses dozens of expert interviews, nationally
representative polling, analysis of fee data, and a survey of
school heads and bursars to provides a comprehensive picture of
independent schooling today. It then uses this picture, as well
as comparison with international examples, to set out a vision
for the future landscape of independent schooling in England. The
recommendations outlined look to cultivate a sector that displays
excellence, cultural breadth, independence, accessibility, and
collaboration.
Civitas' Commission on the Future for Independent Schools can be
purchased in hard copy or
downloaded as a free PDF
from the Civitas website. A twelve-page executive summary of the
report is also available to read on the Civitas website.
In the media:
tes magazine: "Give private schools public
funds to widen access, says commission"
The Times: "Two thirds of parents receive
help to pay school fees"
John Edward writes in Schools Week: "How government can foster
better independent-state partnerships"
Daniel Lilley writes on the Civitas blog: "What would a successful
independent sector look like?"
