privéschool

A private school is an educational institution that operates independently of the government and is financed mainly through tuition fees, donations, and endowments. Private schools can be secular, religiously affiliated, or cater to particular pedagogical approaches. They are typically governed by a private board or trust and have discretion over admissions, curricula, and staffing within the bounds of national or regional laws.

Private schools may offer education from primary through secondary levels and can be day schools or boarding schools. They may be single-sex or coeducational and may emphasize particular programs such as advanced academics, arts, sciences, or athletic and vocational training.

Curricula vary; some private schools align with the national curriculum, others offer alternative qualification tracks such as international Baccalaureate (IB) or A-levels. Accreditation and quality assurance are pursued through national education authorities or independent associations, and standards differ by country.

Admissions are often competitive and may involve entrance exams, interviews, or auditions. Tuition can be substantial, and some schools provide financial aid or scholarships. Beyond tuition, families contribute through fundraising and donations; schools may also rely on endowments and sponsorships.

Proponents cite smaller class sizes, greater resources, specialized programs, and flexibility in scheduling or pedagogy. Critics argue that private schools can exacerbate social segregation and limit access to high-quality education for students from lower-income families. Public policy debates around private schooling typically focus on accountability, funding, and equity.