A guide to UK independent special schools (2025/26)
Finding a school where a child with special educational needs is able to thrive can be a complicated and emotional experience for parents. For many families, independent special schools offer the best route for their children to receive a stable educational environment combined with the specialist support that they need.
Whether you're starting your child's journey in pre-prep, or seeking alternatives for senior school and sixth form, this guide explains how UK independent special schools operate, how they differ from mainstream independent schools, and how you can access the right support for your child.
What is SEND in the UK?
In both the UK state and independent school systems, SEND stands for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. This term covers a wide range of conditions and learning differences, from dyslexia and ADHD to autism, anxiety, and physical or sensory impairments.
In Scotland, SEND is referred to as Additional Support Needs (ASN), while in Wales it is called Additional Learning Needs (ALN).
Children with SEND may require additional teaching strategies, therapies, or pastoral support to thrive in education and in some cases, they may need to attend a different kind of school entirely.
SEND provision in UK independent schools
UK independent schools have long provided support for families whose children's needs are not being met by the state sector. These schools are often sought out by parents because they offer:
- Smaller class sizes and personalised learning
- Specialist staff, such as dyslexia tutors, speech therapists, or autism experts
- Flexible timetables and curriculum adaptation
- A holistic, child-centred approach to development and wellbeing
While some pupils may flourish in a mainstream independent school that offers SEND support within a general academic environment, others might require a dedicated independent special school that is specifically registered and resourced for more complex needs.
Special independent schools vs Mainstream independent schools with SEND support
Special independent schools
These are independent schools which are explicitly registered for pupils with special needs. These schools cater to children whose educational and emotional needs are not well suited to a mainstream setting.
They offer:
- Tailored learning programmes and highly individualised support
- High staff-to-pupil ratios, often including therapists and care teams
- Specialist resources (e.g. sensory rooms, therapeutic provision)
- A nurturing, inclusive environment built around the child's needs
- Residential or day options, often with integrated health and social care support
Mainstream independent schools with SEND support
These are general independent schools that accept a wide range of pupils, but have in-house Learning Support Departments or SEND Coordinators (SENCOs) to assist pupils with additional needs.
These schools may provide:
- One-to-one or small group interventions
- In-class support and adjustments
- Exam access arrangements
- Close collaboration with external professionals (e.g. educational psychologists)
Mainstream schools may be suitable for pupils with mild to moderate needs, while those with more significant or complex needs might require the environment of a registered special school.
Fees at independent special schools
Fees at independent special schools vary widely and are typically tailored to the level of provision required. They can often range from:
- £40,000 to £100,000+ per year, depending on:
- Staffing requirements (e.g. 1:1 support, therapy provision)
- Equipment, facilities, and therapies
- Whether the school is day or residential
These fees are higher than standard independent school fees due to the intensive and specialist support required
Who pays the fees?
Privately funded
Some families choose to self-fund a special school place, particularly if their child's needs do not meet the threshold for state-funded provision or if they are overseas families who are not eligible for UK public funding.
Local Authority funded (EHCP)
If a child qualifies for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), then the local authority may be required to fund the cost of a special school placement, including fees, transport, and therapies if no suitable provision can be found in the state system.
What is an EHCP and how do you apply?
An EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) is a legally binding document in England that sets out:
- A child's special educational needs
- The support required to meet those needs
- The educational setting that is recommended based on the child’s needs
How to apply:
1. Request an EHC Needs Assessment from your local authority.
2. Submit supporting evidence from:
- Current school or nursery
- Medical professionals (e.g. paediatricians, therapists)
- Educational psychologists
3. The authority decides whether to issue an EHCP (Note: there is a legal right to challenge these decisions, if applicable).
To qualify for an EHCP, the child's needs must be deemed to be more complex than can be met through standard SEN support alone.
Families applying from overseas should seek expert guidance, as eligibility may depend on residency status and length of stay.
Additional considerations for parents
- Boarding: Many special independent schools offer residential provision for children who are not able to access day settings easily.
- Therapies: Schools often include speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, or emotional support as part of their provision.
- Trial Days and Assessments: Most schools offer a trial or assessment day to ensure a good fit for both the pupil and the school.
- Transitions: These schools can provide vital support during transitions into senior school or sixth form, where mainstream options may become too overwhelming for some pupils.
Key SEND statistics
The UK's independent school sector plays a significant role in supporting SEND pupils, as showcased in the ISC Census and Annual Report 2025:
- 117,618 pupils in ISC member schools receive SEND support, which is equivalent to 21.6% of all ISC member school pupils
- 9,471 pupils have a formal EHCP, equivalent to 8.1% of SEND pupils at ISC member schools
- 4,353 EHCP pupils (46%) attend one of the 64 ISC member schools, which are registered for special needs
FAQs: Independent Special Schools
What types of needs do independent special schools support?
Support is available for many types of SEND, ranging from dyslexia and ADHD to autism, SEMH needs, speech and language delays, and physical disabilities.
Can my child still take exams and pursue further education?
Yes, many independent special schools follow mainstream curricula with adapted pathways and qualifications.
Do I need an EHCP to apply to an independent special school?
No, but if you are seeking local authority funding, then an EHCP is usually essential.
Are boarding options available?
Yes, especially for pupils whose families live far from a suitable independent special school, or for those who require a consistent environment.
Can my child move from a mainstream school to a special school mid-year?
Yes, many families make this move after recognising that mainstream provision is no longer meeting their child's needs.
In summary:
Independent special schools in the UK can be an invaluable solution for children who require more support than a mainstream school can provide. With specialist staff, tailored environments, and a thorough understanding of complex educational needs, independent special schools provide safe and structured spaces for children to flourish.