Independent School Fair – February 2026 Highlights

Independent School Fair – February 2026

A few reflections from this year’s event

I attended the Independent School Fair in February and, as always, it was an excellent opportunity to speak directly with Heads, admissions teams and bursars. There was a noticeably thoughtful tone this year – a real sense that schools are adapting, both financially and academically, to a changing landscape.

Here are the key updates I felt were most relevant for families preparing for 11+ and 13+ entry.

 

 

Bursaries: Fewer 100% Awards, More Partial Support

One of the clearest shifts discussed was around bursary funding.

Several schools explained that they are moving away from offering a small number of fully funded (100%) bursaries. Instead, they are spreading funding more widely – offering more pupils support in the 40–60% range.

The intention is to:

  • Support a broader range of families
  • Protect hardship funds
  • Increase access across each year group

In practical terms, this may mean more families qualify for meaningful support, even if full bursaries are less common. As always, criteria differ between schools, so early research and careful planning are essential.

 

Notable School Developments

St James Schools

St James confirmed that both sites will become co-educational from 2027. This is a significant shift and will undoubtedly change the admissions dynamic over the next few years.

Alleyn’s School

Alleyn’s is expanding north of the river with the development of Alleyn’s Regent’s Park. This increases capacity and may influence competition patterns in central and north London.

James Allen’s Girls’ School (JAGS)

JAGS shared that they typically offer bursaries to around 17% of entrants. They also reiterated that they do not set pupils by subject in the early years. This flexible academic approach allows children to develop without being labelled too early – something many parents appreciate.

 

Reducing Pressure

More broadly, several Heads spoke about how public examinations may look very different in 10–20 years’ time. Some schools are already responding by:

  • Reducing the number of GCSEs pupils sit
  • Increasing practical or applied qualifications
  • Rethinking internal assessment models

There is a clear sense that academic depth and breadth are being balanced more carefully.

 

A Strong Focus on “Soft Skills”

Another consistent theme was the emphasis on character and transferable skills.

Schools spoke frequently about:

  • Communication
  • Initiative
  • Collaboration
  • Adaptability
  • Emotional intelligence

This reinforces something I often say to parents: preparation is not just about exam technique. Interview readiness, confidence in discussion and genuine curiosity are increasingly important.

 

My Overall Impression

The sector feels reflective and forward-thinking. Academic standards remain high, but there is greater attention to wellbeing, access and broader skill development.

For families preparing for 11+ or 13+, this means:

  • Strong academic foundations still matter
  • Interview preparation is becoming even more significant
  • Financial planning conversations should start early
  • Flexibility in school choice is wise, particularly with expansions and structural changes underway

If you would like to talk through how these developments might affect your child’s pathway, we are always happy to advise.