The Independent Schools Council is a politically independent, not-for-profit organisation representing 1,270 independent schools educating more than 500,000 children. It exists to promote choice, diversity and excellence in education, developing talent at all levels of ability and from all backgrounds.

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First Impressions

Of course, school buildings and facilities play a part in providing a stimulating environment and an atmosphere that encourages excellence. But it is what happens within the buildings that is of importance. Look beyond the facilities and talk to the children, teachers, and senior staff of the school.

Try and get an opportunity to speak to the pupils without the head or staff present. Most schools will not mind this; it shows that they are confident about how their pupils feel about the school and how they will behave. Do the children look happy and purposeful? Ask them about what they are doing and about their interests. What do they particularly like about the school? A pupil prepared to stop and help you find the way to your appointment is one of the best advertisements for a school.

Do you see the staff and children talking and working together? You can get some idea of the discipline of a school by watching its pupils. Do they rush or walk down corridors? Do they stand aside to let you pass? In the classrooms, is the atmosphere one of orderly learning? If the school has a uniform, how are its rules observed?