Best Schools - The overseas value of independent schools

Best of British – what can UK independent schools offer in an education?

Whether it’s international students coming to study in the UK or overseas schools following a British curriculum, there is something the UK offers in an education that is attracting more and more people, but what is it? Nicky Adams investigates.

Krista Doran is happy if her 17-year-old son Johnny waves back as he passes through security at LF Wade International Airport, leaving behind his home and the crystal-clear waters of Bermuda for another half-term of study at boarding school in south-east England.

“We first looked for a British boarding school for Johnny’s sister Kira, who is six years older, and it was a natural decision for him to follow her there,” Doran explains. “I felt that a school abroad would benefit their education, expand their ability to adapt to new environments, provide more opportunities for activities and travel, and offer the experience of meeting new people from all around the world.

“Boarding schools in England have a good reputation among parents here in Bermuda, particularly for their international perspective, the GCSE and IB/A-level pathway and academic results. Our daughter really wanted to go to England, so she and my husband visited three shortlisted schools and eventually chose Felsted for its proximity to London and comfortable co-ed campus as well as the chance to study the IB, take part in activities and engage in charity projects.”

Why abolishing private schools will harm orphans

Labour's antipathy towards private schools overlooks the role these schools play for orphans, says Madeleine Killacky.

As my train started to pull out of the small station in my village the other day, the elderly lady sitting next to me glanced at the obscure academic-looking book on my lap, and asked: “What do you do?”

I explained that I was an assistant housemistress at a local independent boarding school. Then the conversation quickly shifted to the Labour Party’s recent bid to tackle the “problem” of independent schools in this country.