Every year, teachers move from state schools into the independent sector. Some are drawn by smaller classes and longer holidays, others by the chance to teach their subject in more depth or to get involved in sport, music and trips.
Independent schools vary enormously, from small day prep schools to large boarding schools, so there is no single experience. But some differences come up again and again. Here are 17 things teachers notice when they move from a state school to an independent school, particularly for classroom teachers, early career teachers and middle leaders considering the switch.
1. Classes are smaller
The Independent Schools Council’s 2026 census reports a pupil–teacher ratio of 8.5 to 1 across its schools. Its earlier census put the state-funded average at around 18 to 1. Smaller classes mean more time for each pupil, but also nowhere to hide if a lesson is under-prepared.
2. Holidays are usually longer
Many independent schools have longer holidays than state schools, with some offering up to around 19 weeks a year. Longer holidays are often balanced by longer days, Saturday commitments or boarding duties during term.
3. Some schools teach on Saturdays
Saturday morning lessons are common in boarding schools and some day schools, often followed by sports fixtures in the afternoon. Check the weekly timetable carefully before you apply.
4. Co-curricular activities are part of the job
Running a club, coaching a team, helping with a production or leading trips is often an expectation rather than an extra. Schools may ask what you can offer beyond the classroom at interview, so think about your strengths in advance.
5. Boarding schools bring extra duties
In boarding schools, teachers may do evening and weekend duties in a boarding house, supervise prep or act as a house tutor. Some roles come with accommodation on site, which can be a significant benefit but also blurs the line between work and home.
6. Pay is set by each school
Independent schools do not have to follow the national teachers’ pay scales. Many use them as a benchmark, some pay more and some pay less. Ask for the school’s pay scale and how progression works, rather than assuming it matches the state sector.
7. Your pension may be different
This is one of the biggest differences to check. Many independent schools have left the Teachers’ Pension Scheme as employer contributions have risen. A Freedom of Information request reported by The Telegraph found the number of independent schools in the scheme fell from 1,066 in July 2024 to 880 by January 2026. Some schools keep existing staff in the scheme but put new joiners into a different pension, so ask exactly which scheme you would join.
8. Terms and conditions vary
National conditions for state school teachers, such as limits on directed time, do not automatically apply. Read your contract carefully, including working hours, notice periods, cover expectations and what is required in the holidays.
9. There may be extra benefits
Some schools offer reduced fees for staff children, free meals, use of facilities or subsidised accommodation. These can add real value, so include them when comparing offers.
10. Parents are closely involved
Parents paying fees often expect regular communication and quick replies. Most relationships are positive and supportive, but clear, professional communication and good record keeping matter.
11. There is more curriculum freedom
Independent schools do not have to follow the national curriculum, although they must meet the Independent School Standards. Many offer IGCSEs, the International Baccalaureate or their own key stage 3 courses, so you may have more say in what and how you teach.
12. Inspection is different
Schools in membership of the Independent Schools Council’s associations are inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), usually every three years. Other independent schools are inspected by Ofsted. ISI reports do not give a single headline grade.
13. Behaviour is different, not absent
Many teachers report fewer serious behaviour problems, but low-level disruption, disengagement and pastoral issues still happen. Good routines and relationships matter just as much.
14. Facilities are often better, but not always
Some independent schools have outstanding science labs, sports grounds and arts facilities. Others are small schools with limited budgets. Visit before you accept a job.
15. The sector is under financial pressure
VAT has applied to private school fees since January 2025. The ISC’s 2026 census recorded 526,611 pupils at its schools, a fall of 3.5 per cent in a year. It is reasonable to ask about pupil numbers and the school’s plans for the future.
16. QTS and induction work differently
Independent schools do not legally require QTS or statutory induction, although many offer induction through ISTIP or a teaching school hub. If you are an early career teacher, check that the school offers induction, because it affects whether you can return to the state sector easily. See Do You Need QTS to Teach in a Private School? 17 Things to Know.
17. Every school has its own culture
Houses, chapel, speech days, traditions and uniform for staff at formal events can all be part of school life. Union recognition and staff consultation also vary from school to school. Talk to current staff to get a sense of the culture before you commit.
Find Out More
Independent Schools Council: Census and Annual Report 2026 (PDF)
Independent Schools Inspectorate
NEU: Pay in the independent sector
Have you moved between the state and independent sectors? Teach17 would love to hear what surprised you. Get in touch.