How do private schools differ from public schools in the UK?

Private schools in the UK are characterized by their independence from direct government funding and their requirement to charge tuition fees for attendance. This independence allows private schools to have greater flexibility in their curriculum and operations compared to public schools, which are financed by the government and required to follow national education standards and regulations.

The nature of private schooling means that they can often set their own admissions criteria, teaching methods, and other policies, which can attract families seeking a specific type of educational experience. In contrast, public schools, funded by the state, must adhere to the national curriculum and are subject to oversight by local education authorities.

This distinction is vital as it highlights the financial structure and governance model that differentiates private schools from public schools, confirming the importance of tuition fees and independence as defining characteristics of private education in the UK.