Find out more about the Independent schools sector in Wales - Estyn

Find out more about the Independent schools sector in Wales

A classroom scene where a teacher, dressed in black, leans over to assist two young boys with light skin, who are working on an assignment using a tablet and notebooks. The boys, one in a black school uniform and the other in a maroon hoodie, are smiling and engaged in their work. The classroom has shelves filled with books and supplies, and other students are visible working in the background.

There are over 80 independent schools in Wales. Around half of these schools are organised and designed specifically to support pupils with additional learning needs (ALN). Most ALN specialist schools focus sharply on a particular learning need, for example, autistic spectrum condition (ASC) or social, emotional and mental health. In addition, many of these schools are linked to residential children’s homes. The other half of independent schools in Wales are a range of primary, secondary and all-age schools. Most of these are co-educational, although a very few admit girls only. Additionally, a few of these schools are faith schools and a very few have boarding provision.   

These schools must comply with Independent School Standards (Wales) Regulations 2024 to maintain their registration.

Explore advice and tools created for those working in the independent schools sector.

More information about our work is available here

Independent schools