Public school (UK)
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.
- Used in
- England
- 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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Related terms
- 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 (US) United States
- A school funded by taxes and run by a public school district, free to attend. The UK equivalent is a state school.
More terms: Types of school
Junior school · Maintained school · Middle school (UK) · Pupil referral unit · Sixth form college · Studio 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.