The independent schools sector continues to fight off the school-age demographic down-turn and pupil numbers in ISC schools show a slight increase this year.
More than 92 per cent of sixth form leavers - a new record - went on to higher education from independent schools last year and pupil-teacher ratios reached their best-ever level, the Independent Schools Council's 2005 census shows.
Britain's independent schools have set a new record for sustained growth in pupil numbers. The 2004 Independent Schools Council (ISC) annual census shows numbers up for an unprecedented ninth consecutive year.
The 2003 ISC census of independent schools, published today (30 April), shows that schools which used to offer government assisted places have continued to increase their pupil numbers, despite the phasing out of the scheme.