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Independent School News

Over the past few months, there have been some notable developments in the independent sector, particularly here in London.

Several smaller schools have sadly announced closures. Old Palace of John Whitgift School in Croydon, which has been educating girls since 1889, shut its doors this summer after finding it could no longer remain financially viable. Other London preps, including The Village School for Girls in Belsize Park and Falcons School in Putney, have also closed, with similar pressures leading to the closure of Bishop Challoner School in Bromley. These closures highlight the increasing difficulty smaller independents face in balancing rising costs with shrinking pupil numbers.

The new VAT on school fees has undoubtedly accelerated this trend, placing particular strain on schools with smaller intakes and limited resources. Larger schools and groups are better placed to weather the changes, but even here the picture is not straightforward. The proposed sale of Cognita, one of the UK’s biggest private school groups with a strong London presence, has stalled as investors become more cautious about the sector’s future stability.

The message for families is clear: the independent school landscape is shifting. While strong, well-resourced schools remain secure, others will find the coming years more challenging. Parents should be reassured, however, that the majority of leading London schools are well placed to adapt and will continue to provide excellent education despite the wider pressures.

As ever, I will continue to monitor these developments closely and share insights to help families make well-informed decisions about school choices and preparation.

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