Edward Elliott, Head at The Perse School, Cambridge, predicts the next decade in independent education.

It is a sign of our recessionary times, when anxious parents question the financial durability of independent schools. A handful of small prep school closures, and some scaremongering by the popular press, can quickly create the impression of a sector in economic trouble. Add to this concerns that the Charity Commission will act against independent schools who do not demonstrate sufficient public benefit, together with fears of excessive government regulations stifling the very independence of independent schools, and it is possible to conclude that the sector is heading for difficult times. 

I take a longer view. My school was founded in 1615, and in the Perse’s first one hundred years, it survived and even thrived against a backdrop of Bubonic Plague, Civil War, and financial depression. In 1941 the school was subject to a direct hit by the Luftwaffe (which did disrupt teaching for four days) so whatever the future brings I am confident that we will emerge as successful as ever. 

The next decade will be a challenging one for independent schools. The current recession will affect pupil numbers, particularly when interest rates and taxation start to rise and disposable incomes fall. Parents of children already in independent schools make huge sacrifices to keep their children here (witness the increasingly elderly collection of parental Volvos in the school car park), but those considering independent education for the first time can be put off altogether or delay purchasing it until their children reach secondary age. Although economically understandable, such a move can be educationally disadvantageous. An excellent prep school is exactly that – a wonderful preparation for secondary and higher education. Good foundations are vital for future educational success and attainment gaps can open up very quickly between children in different school environments.   

If you wish to read this article in full, you will need to purchase a copy of Which London School?  2009/10

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