Independent schools have proved agile and innovative in the face of the latest UK coronavirus lockdown. 

The Best Private Schools Provided a Full Lockdown Timetable for Pupils 

Children need routine in order to thrive - something that coronavirus lockdowns have made increasingly difficult in the UK. In the first lockdown, 31% of independent schools were providing four or more online lessons a day. By the third lockdown, however, schools had adjusted, with 74% of students in private education benefitting from a full timetable, compared to just 38% in state-funded schools. 

The very best independent schools recognised the need to instil a sense of normality. Wearing school uniform even when learning from home, for instance, and attendance of daily assemblies, foster a sense of school spirit and keeps motivation levels high, which in turn aids lockdown learning. 

The importance of activities outside of study has also been recognised by private schools. In an article in Independent Schools Council, Jonathan Brough, head of St Swithun’s Prep School, said that ‘if we planned to do it when we thought we were going to be in the school building, then we’re going to do it now through remote learning’ has become the school’s mantra. The school even posted musical instruments to students in the third lockdown. Extracurricular activities develop teamwork and crucial life skills - which is why the very best private schools hosted live sports sessions and music recitals. 

Coronavirus has Accelerated the Role of Technology in the Classroom 

Gen Z were already a tech-savvy bunch - but with the rise of digital technology in the classroom, they’ve adapted to a new way of learning at lightening speed. Private schools have utilised Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams, and other online platforms throughout the UK lockdowns. Class Dojo and PowerSchools are two new educational softwares that have been pioneered by independent schools. 

While some schools have resorted to simply streaming classes, the best private schools have pursued a more integrated approach to educational technology tools. On Microsoft Teams, for instance, teachers can upload resources and make homework paperless. Communication is key when teaching remotely - students need interactive feedback.

In some cases, independent schools have actually created their own educational technology. St Paul’s School, in partnership with ed-tech startup EasyA, launched Colet Mentoring, a peer learning app. The app enables students to learn from each other via smartphones. Students can upload their questions and get instant help from a peer mentor. With safeguarded messaging and a virtual whiteboard, Year 12 and 13 students are paired up with a Year 11 or 10 mentee. Peer learning encouraged resourcefulness and teamwork, and is beneficial for both the mentor and mentee. Colet Mentoring streamlines the process and means students can benefit from peer learning even when at home. Private schools across the country, including Radley College, have since started using the app. 

However, excessive screen time is not beneficial for children's mental health. Regular breaks and sport sessions also played a key role in private schools’ lockdown learning strategy. 

Blended Learning On the Rise in Private Schools 

Even after lockdown is lifted, many private schools plan to continue using technology to supplement students’ learning. The use of educational technology in the classroom and at home is known as blended learning, or hybrid learning. Simon Lockyer, headmaster at Royal Hospital School a coeducational independent school in Suffolk, has said that hybrid learning is here to stay. Lockyer said that parent-teacher communication was especially improved by the use of technology. While booking in-person Parents Evenings previously proved a hassle for both parties, Lockyer says that the flexibility virtual Parents Evenings has made it easier to fit catch-ups in around busy parents’ schedules. 

The Financial Impact of Coronavirus on Private Schools is Long-Term

While lockdown has encouraged innovation in our independent schools, it’s also come with challenges. Many independent schools have taken a big financial hit throughout the coronavirus pandemic. Indeed, at least 25 private schools have shut down since March 2020, including Ashdown House Preparatory and Minister School in York.

Many independent schools recognised that parents may have also been hit financially by the pandemic. In the summer, many private schools reduced fees. For instance, Benenden School in Kent gave a 25% discount in the 2020 summer term. The Girls’ Day School Trust also set up a new central hardship fund, and many schools have frozen fees for upcoming terms. Maintaining continuity in a child’s education is essential - all parents are entitled to ask schools whether some kind of financial support is possible. 

The financial impact may be felt by pupils in the coming years. In addition to reduced income over the past twelve months, many schools have had to invest in keeping students and staff safe when they return to school premises, such as purchasing perspex screens and constructing marquees to allow for social distancing. 

Many independent schools will certainly have to let go of key staff members, and may struggle to maintain facilities. This will undoubtedly have an impact on student learning. Private schools need to strike a balance between meeting the needs of current students and ensuring that they have funds for future generations. 

There’s some hope for the financial future of independent schools, though. The coronavirus pandemic has led to a surge of middle-class parents whose children are currently in state schools to consider private education. Indeed, last July there was a 30% rise in demand for places at independent schools. 

Even students at the very best private schools will have experienced set backs in the past year, though. The full impact of of coronavirus on independent schools and education will not be clear for some time, but it’s certain that many students have not been able to fulfil all of their potential. Find out more about how tutors at Getting In are helping students across the country excel here.