subject: A Closer Look At Private And Independent Schools [print this page] If you have decided to send your child to a private school you will no doubt have already learned that there are a lot to choose from. You might be surprised to learn that 25% of elementary and secondary schools are private in America. Since there are so many, choosing the right kind can be tricky. There are religious schools, military schools, boarding schools, etc. Once you understand the differences, choosing the right one is easier.
Is there a difference between private schools and independent ones? This is a good question, because the terms are very often used interchangeably, which can cause confusion, because they are actually different. For instance, most private institutions fall under a larger group, such as a religious body. Catholic schools sydney are a good example. Independent schools, as the name suggests, do not fall under a larger group such as a Church. However, both receive funding in the same ways, such as through various kinds of fees.
A day school is also sometimes referred to as a country day school and they are also private. They are usually located out in the country or in the suburbs. The kids attend classes during the day. Boarding and residential schools provide lodging for the students. Boarding schools and residential schools are different in that kids attending the latter reside at the school during the week, but return home for the weekends.
Special needs schools are for those kids that have special requirements. Some focus mainly on emotional needs, but others take learning and physical disabilities into account as well. Then there are those that cater for kids who want to focus primarily on one particular talent, so that it can be honed. If this is the kind of school you want to enrol your child in, you will need to be specific about what you are requiring.
Children that want to pursue a military career will do well at a military school. With more than 25 military schools around the country you are sure to find one that your child will enjoy. Your child will be schooled in leadership, patriotism, discipline, and more.
For those that wish to pursue their faith and religious convictions, a religious school, such as Catholic schools for Catholic kids, would be the answer. Your child will be schooled in the tenets of the religion, the beliefs, and practices. Some are fairly strict and rigid, while others are less so. Catholic schools (also called parochial schools)abound, and your choice will not be too difficult. Funding is provided by the church and through donations and fees.
Furthermore, Montessori and Waldorf schools are also considered independent or private. These two have unique and different ways of providing education. For example, kids at Montessori schools are taught independence and individuality. The classes are not age restrictive, there are no grades, rewards, punishments, and so on. Kids that attend Waldorf schools are taught to discover their imaginations. Music, the arts, and language all play a major role and, as with Montessori schools, there are no grades.
