Would you like to know the different types of schools in the UK to either teach or enrol your child(ren) in?
In this guide,
You will see all the types of schools in UK, their features and factors to consider when choosing the best for your teaching career or for your child’s education.
- ALSO SEE: HOW TO TEACH IN ENGLAND EITHER AS A CITIZEN OR NON-CITIZEN
Take note.
The UK education system caters to children from the ages of 5 and 16 through various school types.
Knowing their differences will help you identify the type of school that your career or child would benefit more from.
Types of schools in the UK
Education is often through state schools, funded by the government or local authorities, or independent schools (private schools) which rely on tuition fees.
Understanding these schools is crucial for your career or child because their differences in funding, curriculum and governance can influence the teaching and learning environment.
Here are the different types of schools in UK.
1. Faith schools
Faith schools mix religious education into their curriculum and may prioritize their admissions based on religious affiliation.
These schools can be state-funded or independent.
Many parents appreciate faith schools for the way they balance academics with spiritual development, especially if the family’s values align with the school’s ethos.
Faith schools follow the UK NATIONAL CURRICULUM but are free to determine their approach to religious studies.
While faith schools may have different admission criteria and staffing policies, they are open to all applications.
2. Free schools
Free schools are state-funded but operate independent of the local authority.
They have the freedom to design their own curriculum and teaching methods, making them an innovative option for those seeking alternatives to traditional state schools.
Their flexible approach appeals to individuals looking for a more modern teaching or learning experience.
Free schools are “all-ability” institutions (they do not use academic selection processes).
They also have the flexibility to set their own pay and conditions for staff and adjust the length of school day or term.
Free schools operate on a “not-for-profit” basis and can be founded by various groups, including:
- Charities
- Universities
- Independent schools
- Community and faith groups
- Teachers
- Parents
- Businesses
3. Academies
Academies are prominent types of schools in UK that receive funding from the government and are run by an academy trust.
They are not required to follow the NATIONAL CURRICULUM and have the freedom to set their own term dates.
Academies do not charge fees.
But they are also inspected by OFSTED and must adhere to the same regulations as other state schools regarding admissions, special educational needs, and exclusions.
Students in academies take the same NATIONAL EXAMS as those in state-funded schools.
Though schools can choose to become academies but if a local authority-funded school receives an ‘inadequate’ rating from Ofsted, it is required to become an academy.
Academies are managed by academy trusts, which are not-for-profit organisations responsible for hiring staff and overseeing school performance.
A trust may run a single academy or multiple academies within a group.
Some academies receive additional support from sponsors, including businesses, universities, other schools, faith groups, and voluntary organisations.
These sponsors collaborate with academy trusts to enhance school performance and student outcomes.
4. State boarding schools
State boarding schools offer free education but require payment for boarding accommodation.
The majority of these schools operate as academies, while some function as free schools or are managed by local authorities.
Priority for admission is often given to children with a specific need for boarding and schools assess applicants to determine their suitability for a boarding environment.
Financial assistance for boarding fees may be available through charities and foundations.
5. Private Schools
Private schools (or Independent schools) charge tuition fees and offer a distinct educational experience compared to state-funded schools.
Often known for smaller class sizes, extensive extracurricular programs, and robust academic outcomes, these schools sometimes require entrance exams.
They provide an alternative path for those seeking a tailored and high-quality teaching or learning environment.
Key differences between the types of schools in the UK
State-funded schools, like community schools, free schools and faith schools are funded more by the government or local authorities.
But private schools rely on tuition fees and academies (though state-funded too) enjoy more independence under academy trusts.
Most state schools follow the national curriculum, while academies and free schools have the latitude to innovate and customize their teaching methods.
This can be beneficial for children with special educational needs, as some schools offer specialized programs.
City Technology Colleges focus on practical and technical skills, while many private schools provide a broad curriculum enriched by extracurricular activities.
Admission Requirements and Selection Process
Many community schools provide a free place at a state school based on geographical catchment areas, whereas faith schools may prioritize admissions for students of a particular religion. Grammar schools and some private schools often require entrance exams and interviews.
Parents should carefully consider these processes to ensure a smooth transition for their child.
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