Choosing a school in the UK can be confusing enough without having to work out what the different terms mean. For families moving to the UK, or those considering independent education for the first time, the differences between state schools, private schools, and public schools can be difficult to understand.
One of the biggest sources of confusion is the phrase ‘public school’. In the UK, a public school does not mean a school that is funded by the government. In fact, public schools are a historic subset of private, fee-paying schools. Well-known examples include Eton, Harrow, and Winchester.
The term ‘private school’ is generally used to describe independent schools where parents pay fees for their children to attend. Independent schools can vary considerably. Some are day schools, some are boarding schools, and many offer both. They can also differ in size, admissions policies, curriculum, and approach to education. The correct term for government-funded education is ‘state school’.
So, if you are researching public school vs private school in the UK, it’s worth understanding these differences before comparing the options available to your child.
Key differences at a glance
| Feature | State schools | Private (independent) schools | ‘Public schools’ (Historic elite private schools) |
| Funding | Government-funded, free to attend | Fees paid by parents | Fees paid by parents |
| Curriculum | Must follow national curriculum | Can set their own curriculum | Can set their own curriculum |
| Admissions | Free, based on catchment/locality | Selective or non-selective, paid | Highly selective, expensive |
| Class sizes | Generally larger | Smaller | Smaller |
| Inspection | OFSTED | Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) or OFSTED | Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) |
| Examples | Local comprehensive schools | Prep schools, day schools, boarding schools | Eton, Harrow, Winchester |
State (government-funded) schools
State schools are funded by the government and do not charge tuition fees for children of the relevant school age. They make up the majority of schools in the UK and include a wide range of schools, from local comprehensives to academies and other state-funded settings.
State schools generally follow the national curriculum, which provides a consistent framework for what pupils are taught. They also reflect the communities they serve, often bringing together children from a wide range of backgrounds and circumstances.
Class sizes tend to be larger than those found in many independent schools, although this varies between schools and year groups. State schools also have responsibilities to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Location can also be an important consideration, with admissions often linked to catchment areas or other local admissions criteria. Families may therefore have less choice over which school their child attends, depending on where they live and the admissions arrangements in their area.
Private (independent) schools
Private schools, more accurately known as independent schools, charge parents fees for their children’s education. However, there is considerable variety within the independent sector, so it is worth looking beyond the label itself when comparing schools.
Independent schools can set their own curriculum. This gives them greater freedom to introduce subjects and approaches that reflect their educational goals. Some specialise in specific areas, while others offer a broad curriculum alongside extensive opportunities beyond the classroom.
Smaller class sizes are another common feature. With fewer pupils in a class, teachers can give more individual attention and get to know each pupil’s strengths, interests, and areas for development. Many independent schools also offer a wide range of sports, music, drama, outdoor education, clubs, and trips.
Tuition fees often range from £15,000–£40,000+ per year and vary depending on the school and whether a child is a day pupil or a boarder. As many independent schools are also charitable foundations, some offer scholarships and bursaries to help make places accessible to more families.
Independent schools are inspected by bodies including the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), depending on the school and its circumstances.
Public schools (historic elite private schools)
The term ‘public school’ is perhaps the most misleading of the three. In Britain, it traditionally refers to a small group of long-established, prestigious independent schools.
The term has historical roots and does not mean that these schools are publicly funded. Schools such as Eton, Harrow, and Winchester are fee-paying independent schools and are often highly selective.
These schools tend to have long histories, strong traditions and extensive alumni networks. Many are boarding schools, although the exact arrangements vary. Their reputation means that admissions can be extremely competitive, and fees are often at the higher end of the independent sector.
It is important to remember that not every independent school is a public school. Public schools represent a specific historic group within the much broader independent education sector.
Which is ‘better’?
There’s no universal answer. It depends on the child and the family’s priorities. Ultimately, when you’re comparing public school vs private school in the UK, the best choice depends on your child’s needs, your values, and your budget.
State schools can offer excellent teaching, strong pastoral care, and a diverse community, all without tuition fees. For families who value their local community or want their child to attend a school close to home, a state school may be an excellent fit.
The independent sector offers a different set of possibilities. Smaller classes, greater curriculum flexibility, and a wide range of co-curricular opportunities can appeal to families looking for a more tailored educational experience. The ability to choose a school based on its ethos, rather than simply its location, can also be valuable.
There are differences within both sectors, however. A large independent school and a small independent school can offer very different experiences, just as two state schools in neighbouring areas can have very different approaches.
It is also worth looking beyond academic results. Ask how a school supports pupils when they struggle. Look at the opportunities available outside lessons. Consider how much choice pupils have as they get older and whether the school encourages them to become independent.
For some families, boarding may also be an important consideration. Boarding schools can provide a particularly immersive school experience, with accommodation, activities, sport and pastoral support forming part of everyday school life.
Ultimately, the best school is the one where your child can feel comfortable and supported. Visiting schools is one of the best ways to work this out. Talk to teachers. Meet pupils. Look around the classrooms and wider school. Try to imagine your child there.
Why choose Barnard Castle School?
At Barney, we believe independent education should give pupils the freedom to explore what they can achieve, while providing the support they need along the way.
Our school offers education from Prep School through to Sixth Form, with day and boarding options. We are a broad-entry school, welcoming pupils with a wide range of abilities and interests.
Academic ambition sits at the heart of our approach. We want pupils to take their learning seriously, but we also want them to remain curious. Our curriculum provides strong academic foundations while giving pupils opportunities to explore subjects and ideas in more depth.
Education at Barney also extends well beyond the timetable. Pupils can take part in a rich range of sport, music, drama, outdoor activities, clubs, trips, and other co-curricular opportunities.
We also place a strong emphasis on character. Programmes like the Barney Diploma encourage pupils to explore ideas and develop skills outside of the traditional curriculum, while our pastoral approach gives them the support and guidance to grow as individuals.
If you would like to find out more about life at Barney, explore the school, meet the team, and discover what an independent education at Barnard Castle School could offer your child, get in touch with our admissions team or arrange a visit.
