The Independent Schools Council (ISC) reported in 2018, during their ‘annual census’, that across the South East there was a total of 13,541 boarding pupils in independent education, 38% of which were international pupils from across the world enjoying a ’Brand Britain’ education - often referred to as the ’gold standard’.
Boarding pupils in the South East collectively bring a total value of over £476 million per year in school fees alone, based upon an annual boarding fee per person of £35,154. International pupils contribute nearly £181 million of this total.
Since 2013 (to 2018) the top national overseas consumers of independent education in the UK are:
- Hong Kong
- Mainland China
- Remainder of Europe EEA
- Germany
- Russia
- Spain
White Cliffs Country has two independent boarding schools (Dover College - a Round Square School and member of the Boarding Schools’ Assocation; and Northbourne Park - a member of the Independent Association of Prep Schools and Boarding Schools’ Assocation), two state boarding schools (The Duke of York Royal Military School - a member of the Boarding Schools’ Association and State Boarding Forum; and Sir Roger Manwood’s), and one independent preparatory school (St Faiths at Ash - a member of the Wishford Schools Group). Other schools in the District may also have an international dimension through ’homestay’ opportunities.
Day pupils to independent schools tend to come from approximately a 25-mile radius of the campus. It is assumed that this radius is also relevant to the District’s Technical College (Dover Technical College).
The world-class Maritime Skills Academy is also a vital asset within the District, and the Country as a whole, regarding international educational tourism.
For further useful information, reports and statistics regarding educational tourism please refer to:
For promotional guides, materials and information you can use to supplement your promotional plans and campaigns in attracting new pupils and teachers to study and work in White Cliffs Country please refer to:
*Printed copies are available from the District Visitor Information Centre, based in Dover Museum, or email vic@dover.gov.uk.