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Pupil Numbers

Pupil numbers and demographic trends

At the start of each new academic year SCIS gathers statistical data from member schools to provide an overview of the independent education sector in Scotland.  The information is made available to member schools, the public and the press.  Facts and statistics about pupil numbers and demographic projections can be downloaded from the pdf documents, on the right.

Pupil numbers in the independent sector remain stable against a decrease in Scotland's total pupil population

As at 1 September 2009 there were 31,713 pupils in SCIS schools. Of the 31,713 total 1,871 children were in nurseries, 11,306 were in primary schools and 18,536 pupils were in senior schools. A table showing the breakdown of pupils in SCIS schools can be downloaded on the right. Pupil numbers in the independent sector remain stable against a decrease in Scotland's total pupil population, due to a falling birth rate.

In late February each year, when the Scottish Government publishes its Statistical Bulletin on Pupils in Scotland, SCIS produces a Fact Card (available to download on the right) showing the number of pupils in SCIS schools in each council area as a percentage of the total pupil population.

• Total pupil population in Scotland (September 2008) 713,413
• Total number of pupils in SCIS Schools (September 2008) 31,840
• Pupils in SCIS schools as a percentage of the total pupil population 4.5%