Choosing a School

Reviewing and choosing independent schools in Scotland

A great strength of the independent schools sector in Scotland is the choice it offers to meet the diverse needs of pupils, from children as young as 3 to young adults aged 18. Pupils of all abilities, from families of all income levels are included, with around 20% receiving some financial assistance from schools. Scotland's independent schools also welcome children from around the world and the sector enjoys a rich mix of pupils from diverse social and ethnic backgrounds. Mainstream, special needs and specialist schools are represented by SCIS and all share a common goal - to encourage each individual child to be all that they can be.

Finding a school to suit your children's needs and abilities

In October each year, SCIS produces a comprehensive directory of independent schools in Scotland. Please email if you would like a copy, providing your full postal address. Alternatively, you can use the Find a School page of our website to review profiles of individual schools. The drop down menus allow you to select alphabetically, by type of school or by location. Each profile includes pupil numbers, exams offered, fee levels and financial assistance, contact details and website links.

Contacting schools and arranging visits

For more detailed information, please contact individual schools directly, to request a prospectus and admissions pack. This will enable you to narrow down your choice of school to perhaps two or three. A personal visit, preferably in term time, is recommended so that you can see the school "at work". Most schools also organise Open Days, usually in the autumn term, to give parents an opportunity to see what the school has to offer, to talk to pupils and staff, and to have questions answered. You can download the SCIS leaflet, Questions to ask, below.