Primary school is the first step your child will take in their educational journey. If you are heading towards this next phase of your child’s life, you might have started to consider choosing a private primary education and be wondering ‘is private primary school worth it?’ This guide will help answer your questions and explain the many benefits of private primary schools as well as discuss some of the reasons you may be unsure, so that you can make a balanced and informed choice.
What Is A Private Primary School Education?
While most primary schools in the UK are part of the public education system, private primary schools are independently funded and managed. This means that they have more control over what children are taught, how school life is structured and the extra-curricular activities offered. Through this autonomy, private primary schools can be very distinct due to variations in educational philosophies, teaching styles, and the specific programmes on offer. Parents are therefore able to select schools that align with their values and their children's learning preferences. Sidcot School follows the Quaker principles of truth, integrity, respect, simplicity, equality, and sustainability. These values help us to define our approach not just to teaching but to all facets of life at Sidcot.
What Age Do Children Start At A Private Primary School?
The standard age of entry to primary school in the UK is four. However, children are not legally required to start primary school until the term after their fifth birthday. Children of this age will start in a reception class, where they learn through play and activity. As they progress into Key Stage 2, this is when a private primary school education really starts to take shape for pupils. Sidcot Junior School admits primary school children from the ages of 7 to 11 after which they then move into our Senior School in the September after they have turned 11. We also have a pre-school available for children aged 3 to 7 who are ready to enjoy the benefits of early learning in a relaxed and fun environment, to prepare them for primary school.
The Advantages Of Private Primary Education
All parents will have different things that matter most to them when choosing a primary school for their child. There are many advantages of opting for a private primary school, including:
1. Smaller Class Sizes
Private primary schools typically have reduced student-to-teacher ratios. This is one of the most well documented benefits of independent junior schools as it allows teachers to focus on each child’s unique needs and give them more one-on-one attention. With specialist teachers and stronger student-teacher relationships often comes better academic outcomes, and improved emotional health for children who feel seen and heard.
2. Tailored Teaching
By not being restricted to the National Curriculum, private primary schools offer more freedom in the educational methods, subjects and approaches used in their curriculum. This takes into account the diverse learning styles and interests of primary school children, with tailored teaching that encourages children to learn at their own pace and excel at the subjects they enjoy. Some independent primary schools such as Sidcot also forgo SATs, preferring to monitor progress in a more natural and individualised way.
3. Enhanced Resources and Facilities
With more funding available, private primary schools are able to invest in advanced teaching tools, extracurricular programs, and well-maintained facilities. This might mean fully equipped sports halls and swimming pools, state-of-the-art language labs, and dedicated music studios. Being surrounded by open green spaces also allows children to explore the great outdoors, and learn basic survival skills in Forest School. Having access to these kinds of resources inspires a further love of learning, and provides students with more opportunities for self development.
4. Values and Aims
A private primary education is about so much more than academic subjects and the school day. At Sidcot we place a strong emphasis on values and ethics, with a consistent focus on how children can make a difference to the world around them. By delivering a holistic private primary education to all our students, we hope to shape well-rounded individuals with a strong sense of self and a responsibility to look after themselves, others and the environment.
5. Extracurricular Opportunities
Encouraging children to pursue hobbies and interests outside of the classroom is of the utmost importance at Sidcot School. The broader range of activities on offer at a private primary school allows students to indulge their curiosity and try a variety of new things until they find something they love. Whether it’s horse riding, tennis, knitting or drawing, primary school children start to develop the passions and talents that they will enjoy throughout their life.
6. Strong Community
Smaller student populations and active parental involvement mean that you will find supportive communities at a private primary school. At Sidcot we have a thriving International School so children can actively spend time with peers from other cultures and backgrounds. Those who stay with us in our boarding school enjoy additional time with friends and staff, forging strong relationships throughout their school years and beyond. This environment promotes collaboration, creates networking opportunities and improves overall wellbeing for everyone.
Private Primary School Education: What To Consider
1. Cost
Cost is the biggest consideration for parents who are wanting to send their child to a private primary school. Tuition fees often need to be paid in advance and there are also additional costs for uniforms, activities, and school supplies. However, many of the latter are also required costs in state schools. We provide information on Sidcot tuition fees to help parents plan ahead before choosing our school. We also have a number of scholarships and bursaries for students and their families to access, and if you have any concerns our friendly team is available to discuss options.
2. Admission
Some private primary schools have rigorous admission processes, requiring interviews, entrance exams, or waiting lists. This can require more planning and preparation to secure a place. As Sidcot, we aim to simplify our admissions process to accommodate our families and welcome all children into our community.
3. Diversity
There is often the misconception that private primary schools lack diversity and inclusion. Sidcot School’s international provision and inclusive values means that meeting students from all walks of life is the norm. Children are positively encouraged to be curious about the world as a whole and to have a global perspective in their thinking and their actions.
4. Location
As with any school, location is a priority and, of course, depending on where you live, there may be fewer options when choosing a private primary education. Sidcot School is based in North Somerset, close to Bristol, Bath and Weston Super Mare. Our rural location means we can give students plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors but with transport links to big cities, they can also get to us easily. We also provide wraparound care to ease the burden on parents with primary school age children, making life easy
Is Private Primary School Worth It?
Ultimately whether a private primary school is worth it is a very personal decision. By weighing up all of the considerations of a private primary education you can gauge how beneficial it will be for your child. The main points to consider are:
Your child’s needs - For example do they thrive in smaller, structured environments and does your preferred school offer programmes that align with your child’s passions?
Long-term goals - Private primary schools provide strong foundations for children to go on to private secondary schools or revered universities.
Finances - Tuition fees should be carefully considered, alongside any scholarships, bursaries or financial aid that your child or children may be eligible for.
If, on balance, you feel that a private primary school is the right choice for your child, you can then start to make a short list of schools and visit each one to find the right fit for your child and your family.
A Private Primary Education At Sidcot School
A private primary education is an enriching and wonderful experience that supports children as they make their way through life and take on each new chapter. We believe that a private primary education is very much worth it and would love to show you how we create a warm, engaging and productive environment for all of our students that prepares them for a life of success and happiness. Contact us now to book an open morning or arrange a private tour.