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Private school

A school funded by fees and private money rather than taxes. In the UK the formal term is independent school.

Used in
All four UK nations (details may differ), United States
Topic
Types of school

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Independent school All four UK nations (details may differ)
A school that charges fees and is not funded by the state. Independent schools in England must be registered with the Department for Education and are inspected, but do not have to follow the national curriculum.
Public school (UK) England
In England, a traditional name for some of the oldest and best-known fee-paying independent schools (for example Eton or Harrow). This is the opposite of the US meaning, where a public school is a state school.
Parochial school United States
A private school run by a religious body, especially a Catholic parish school.

More terms: Types of school

Magnet school · Montessori school · Nursery school · Public school (US) · Selective school · Special school

More terms starting with P · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.