Inspired Learning Group, who own ten independent prep schools and four stand alone nurseries, worked with a number of the country’s largest private education groups to reassure hard-pressed families that independent schools are reviewing their finances to assist parents in the present covid-19 (Coronavirus) emergency.
In a letter in The Times on Friday 27 March, the groups outlined what the independent schools sector are collectively doing to support families during difficult times whilst also ensuring continuity of education for their children.
The seven groups and the Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Schools Association, Neil Roskilly, promised to provide uninterrupted education for their pupils during these uncertain times, whilst also appealing to parents not to withold fees. The groups recognise that some parents will face unprecedented challenges and wanted to reassure them that they will do everything possible to support parents financially during these challenging economic times.
The letter reads:
“As proprietors of some of the country’s largest private education groups we want to reassure hard-pressed families that schools are doing what they can to help in the present emergency. Private schools are operating extensive online learning platforms so that children’s education will not be interrupted, and the fees parents pay are also helping to support many of the country’s key workers, who are vital to our fight against the coronavirus. Despite that, some parents might consider withholding fees if the nature of provision has changed, albeit only in the short term. No school wants to make teachers redundant, recognising that the relationship between teacher and pupil is the most precious commodity; parents will want reassurance that this will still be the case in September. We are happy to give that reassurance while recognising that parents also face unprecedented challenges. Our schools are doing everything possible to support parents financially during the present crisis.”
