Independent schools in England are expensive. The price varies according to factors such as prestige, quality of facilities and location, but for 2025/26 range between £40,000 - 50,000 for day education and £50,000 – 65,000 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. £5,000 – 6,000 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 £5,000 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 £70,000 – 80,000 per annum (excluding the deposit), due in three instalments over the year.