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This partnership recognises that many independent school boards lack diversity, and this is a considerable factor holding schools back. With over 40% of pupils in independent schools from minority ethnic background (ISC, 2025), there is an irrefutable need for governing board membership to be reflective of the rich diversity of their pupil populations, especially as governance shapes school success, pupil outcomes and their everyday experiences.

This year’s event not only showcased youth-led solutions to pressing global challenges but also fostered lasting international connections that will extend well beyond the competition itself. At the heart of this success is North London Grammar School (NLGS), a proud recent member of the UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet), whose commitment to academic excellence and global citizenship continues to inspire and empower young innovators.

Carleton House Preparatory School will celebrate its 50th Anniversary with the launch of a third illustrated children’s book featuring their school mascot, Carleton Mouse, with a special in-house event for school children next month.

The Treasury says pupil numbers at independent schools have remained steady since 2000, despite fees increasing by around 75% in real terms since then. BBC speaks to Rudolf Eliott Lockhart - CEO of the Independent Schools Association.

The ISA Awards  are a celebration of the exceptional ways in which the 674 schools across the Association provide something truly special to the children in their care. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees of our awards, and good luck to everyone entering next year. 

Highlights included innovative textile designs, like a corset made from horsehair and another crafted entirely out of paper. There were also impressive 3D pieces made from recycled materials such as milk bottles, twigs, leaves, and popsicle sticks, bringing natural scenes to life in unique ways.

The Lexden Prize, named in honour of our Honorary President, Lord Lexden, celebrates excellence from Sixth Form students at ISA Members’ schools. Achievements can be in any aspect of school or community life and are not limited to academics.

On Budget Day, we heard the Chancellor’s plans to add 20% VAT on independent school fees. This is why I believe it is a bad policy.

Pupils from a Bournemouth primary school are celebrating their success after participating in a nationwide spelling challenge.

An exceptionally gifted student from Abbey College Manchester has celebrated remarkable success recently in a national creative competition and has since secured a place to further her talents at a University in Barcelona to study Animation. 

ISA is delighted to announce the Finalists and Highly Commended schools for the ISA Awards 2024. Finalists have showcased the outstanding impact on the students that they educate in a variety of fields. Judges have also awarded Highly Commended honours to schools that were not shortlisted, but whose work is deemed worthy of special recognition. 

Following the award, Dr Burley commented, “I was absolutely thrilled to be named Tatler Best Head 2025 – the award belongs to the whole King’s High community and reflects the incredible dynamism, energy, and success of this wonderful school.

This is an incredible partnership project working with the MK Lit Fest team, authors, Waterstones and Thornton College.  Jo Scott, Careers Leader at Thornton College said “We are hugely grateful to all the people who have worked with us to make this idea a reality.