Last years statistics prove that yet again the greater gains in top A-level grades have been within the private education sector. Figures show over 7% of the nations pupils currently attend private schools, the biggest rise being within the independent 6th forms, with their increased hold on places at UK's top 20 universities, these figure are sure to climb.

If you are considering an independent education for your child, you will be spoilt for choice as the borough of Bromley and South East London boasts some of the leading Independent and Selective schools. Whether you are interested in single-sex or co-education, senior or junior, large or small, independent schooling provides education from 3-19 years old, with many of the single sex schools offering a co-educational 6th form, with such diversity the rise in interest continues to grow.

Open days
Open days are an ideal time to get an insight into the school, it gives you the opportunity to chat with the teachers and pupils and observe work on display. You have to consider the best facilities and options for your child, for example, some schools will specialise in certain areas such as sport or music. Once a decision has been made your next step is the admissions process.

Admissions
Each school has its own admissions policy and entry requirements whether it be on a first come first serve basis or a selection process. You will need to be considering a school at least one academic year, preferably two years in advance. The standard of entry will vary form school to school with some schools being academically selective. Its best to research your school of choice and entry requirements, assessing how successful your child will be, as you may need to be considering other schools with less demanding requirements.

Junior schools usually accept on a first come first serve basis so make sure you get your child's name down early, especially if you favour a particular school and be sure to have a couple of alternatives in case you are not successful. Senior schools admissions policy is usually in some form of entrance exam and interview.

Once you have decided on your school/schools of choice you will need to register a place, usually with a non-refundable fee, which acknowledges your interest. Once the required criteria has been completed and if your child has been successful you will receive a formal offer of a place.

Fees/Bursaries & Scholarships
The average fee per term in the Borough of Bromley and South East London borders is around £2,900 for Junior pupils and £3,670 for Senior pupils. Some schools offer scholarship awards or schemes, the amount awarded varies from school to school, some offer a small proportion of fees and in exceptional cases a pupil can be awarded full tuition fees. Scholarships are based purely on academic merit and not on financial basis, offering reward for academic potential. Bursaries however, are based on financial basis and are offered to more gifted children who could not otherwise afford the fees to enter the school. This would be based on an interview selection, with some academic merit usually taken into account. Schools often have a limited number of scholarships and bursaries, but it's always worth asking.