Independent schools across the United Kingdom face unique property and building challenges that demand specialist expertise and understanding from partners who understand their specific requirements.

Our team of RICS-certified professionals has extensive experience supporting private educational institutions across all aspects of their property management and development needs.

If you need urgent building repairs, strategic estate planning or support on a new construction project, we are here to help. Call 0808 253 0544 or claim your free consultation to discuss your requirements with us now.

What is an independent school?

Independent schools (or private schools) are educational institutions that operate outside of state control. They are funded through tuition fees, donations and endowments rather than government support. This gives them greater autonomy over their curriculum, admissions policies and operational decisions.

These education providers serve students from nursery age through to sixth form and sometimes provide boarding facilities alongside learning. Many have rich histories spanning centuries, with some occupying heritage buildings and extensive grounds that require specialist care and maintenance.

The biggest property and building challenges faced by independent schools

There are several distinctive property challenges that independent schools encounter that set them apart from state-funded institutions, including:

• Many private schools operate from historic buildings that require careful conservation work while meeting modern educational standards and accessibility requirements
• Private schools cannot access government capital funding streams available to state schools, meaning property improvements, maintenance and new construction must be funded through school budgets, fundraising efforts or commercial borrowing
• Managing extensive estates with multiple buildings, sports facilities and boarding houses, ensuring compliance with independent school regulations
• Pressure to maintain facilities that match parental expectations while controlling costs

Property services for independent schools

Surveying

Our surveying services offer your independent school detailed assessments of its buildings and estates, supporting strategic decision-making and compliance with regulations. Here is what we offer:

• Condition surveys
• Fire risk assessments
• Energy efficiency surveys
• Valuations

Planning

Our planning services help you develop long-term strategies for their estates while maximising the potential of their properties. Here is what we offer:

• Decarbonisation strategies
• Estate management strategies
• Planning applications
• Internal scrutiny
• Planned preventative maintenance

Building

Our building services guide you through all phases of construction and renovation projects, from initial design through to completion. Here is what we offer:

• Project management
• Architecture and design work
• Structural engineering
• Cost planning

How can Eddisons Education support my independent school?

We understand that every independent school is unique, with its own history, challenges and aspirations. Our approach begins with taking time to understand your specific requirements, budget constraints and long-term objectives for your estate.

Our team can also deliver a comprehensive service offering that can support you through every aspect of your building and property journey, ensuring consistency and continuity throughout your projects.

We also recognise the financial pressures facing independent schools and work closely with you to develop cost-effective solutions that deliver the best possible outcomes within your available budget.

Why should I work with Eddisons Education?

• With over 180 years of experience in the property industry, we have built a reputation for delivering high-quality services that our clients can depend on
• Our team of more than 60 RICS-certified professionals brings extensive expertise across all aspects of property and building services
• We have a proven track record of supporting educational institutions and understand the challenges and requirements of the sector
• Our client reviews consistently highlight our professional approach, technical expertise and commitment to delivering results
• We pride ourselves on building long-term relationships with our clients and supporting them through multiple projects over many years
• Our nationwide coverage means we can support independent schools across the UK

Discuss your private school’s property and building needs with us now

Whether you are planning a major construction project or want to develop a long-term estate strategy, we are here to help. Call 0808 253 0544 or complete the form below to arrange a free consultation where we can discuss your requirements.