I NDEPENDENT SCHOOLS CONTINUED Learning objective: To know the advantages and disadvantages of independent schools. Starter: If you were a parent would you send your child to an independent school? Please explain why.

T ASK 1 Match the cards into the correct columns Advantages of the independent education sector Disadvantages of the independent education sector

S OLUTION Advantages of the independent education sector Disadvantages of the independent education sector Independent schools have a lower teacher- student ratio than state schools which means that classes are smaller and students receive more attention from the teacher which helps then do better in exams. Independent schools are fee paying, while state schools are free for students to attend. Therefore, only the state schools promote equality of opportunity, while independent schools maintain social inequality. Independent schools promote and encourage academic achievement and their exam results tend to be excellent. Most students from independent schools go on to university. Independent schools are seen as elitist and socially divisive, while in state schools children of all class, ethnic and religious backgrounds mix which promotes tolerance. Independent schools have high parental input in terms of support for the school’s expectations. State schools enable working class children to become upwardly socially mobile –to improve their life chances through gaining qualifications. Independent schools are less likely to admit working class children. Independent boarding schools are said to benefit from the full immersion of staff and students into school life. Day students attending independent schools may have to travel long distances to get to school or, if they are boarders, they have to spend long periods of time away from their family. Independent schools have better facilities and resources than state schools which helps their students do better in exams.

T ASK 2 In small groups, log onto a laptop. Choose one of these independent schools: o Eton College o Harrow School o Cheltenham Ladies College o St Augustine’s Priory School Go to the school’s website and find out the following: 1. Location – where is it in the UK? 2. Fees – how much does it cost to go there per year? 3. Subjects offered – what subjects are taught at the school? 4. Facilities – sport, music, trips, etc. 5. Entry requirements – what is the admissions criteria?

E XTENSION - EXAM QUESTION PRACTICE 1. Explain briefly what is meant by a selective school. (2 marks) 2. Explain the difference between selective schools and comprehensive schools. (4 marks)

R EVIEW Are you pro or anti independent sector schools? Why? Independent schools are elitist and should not be allowed to exist any more Independent schools provide choice for parents who should have the right to send their children to any school they want and can afford.