Education costs

Independent schools in England are expensive. The price varies according to factors such as prestige, quality of facilities and location, but for 2020/21 range between £18,000 - 30,000 for day education and £28,000 – 45,000 per annum for full boarding at senior school.

Fees are no indicator of the quality of teaching – although this is generally very high.   However, “extras”, such as uniform, extra-curricular activities, additional tutoring and (in some cases) books can add 10% or more on top of the fees (i.e. £3,000 – 4,500 per annum).

If a child is offered a place, schools require payment of one term’s fees in advance as well as a deposit to cover the extras.

Other costs to bear in mind are:

• Guardianship – from £3,600 per annum plus accommodation for holidays and exeats

• Flights and transfers – three return flights each year, plus another three if the child returns home at half term.

In total, the costs amount to £36,000 – 50,000 per annum (excluding the deposit), due in three instalments over the year.