The Association of Governing Bodies of Independent Schools (AGBIS) is a UK-based organization that supports and advises the governing bodies of independent schools. AGBIS aims to advance education and promote good governance within the independent school sector. The association provides guidance, training, and resources to member schools on all aspects of governance, helping them to operate effectively and meet their charitable objectives. It also represents the interests of its members and the wider independent education sector.
AGBIS Member Schools (207)
Aberdour School is an independent co-educational preparatory day school in Burgh Heath, Surrey, for children aged 2 to 11 years. Situated in 12 acres of parkland, the school features facilities such as an indoor swimming pool, sports hall, and science laboratories. The school claims to focus on its unique Personalised Achievement Learning (PAL) curriculum, aiming to provide an individual tailored education for each child. It is a non-selective institution.
Aldro is a preparatory boarding school situated in Shackleford, near Godalming, Surrey. It occupies an idyllic 30-acre site in the countryside, featuring a large lake. The school, founded in 1898, was boys-only until 2021 and now caters for boys and girls aged 7 to 13. Its ethos is centred on its Christian foundation, emphasising pastoral care and the education of the “whole child”. The school claims to foster an inclusive, family-like environment, promoting values such as Kindness, Respect, Integrity, Humility, and Service.
Aldwickbury School is an independent Pre-Prep and Prep School for ages 3-13, situated on 20 acres of grounds on the outskirts of Harpenden, Hertfordshire. The school began its transition to co-education in September 2025 and is projected to be fully co-educational by 2031. The school claims to focus on a holistic education with pastoral care at its heart, encouraging pupils to embrace challenges and be kind. It offers facilities including a STEM Hub, AstroTurf pitches, a swimming pool, and a Sports Hall. Aldwickbury School was named the UK's 'Independent Boys' School of the Year' in 2024.
Amesbury is a co-educational independent preparatory school situated in Hindhead, Surrey, on a 34-acre rural site. Founded in 1870, the school educates pupils from 9 months to 13 years old. The main school building, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1903, is a Grade II* listed structure. The school claims to focus on nurturing individual talents within a purposeful atmosphere, fostering a "have-a-go" spirit, and instilling strong values. It was awarded 'Excellent' by ISI in 2017.
Situated in the West Sussex countryside, near Haywards Heath, Ardingly College is a co-educational boarding and day school established in 1858. The college occupies a 240-acre campus with woodland and a lakeside environment. The school claims to focus on academic rigour, critical thinking, and preparing students to be "World Ready". Its ethos is guided by values such as engagement, compassion, resilience, and collaboration. Ardingly College offers A-levels, the IB Diploma, and BTECs.
Arnold House School is an independent preparatory day school for boys aged 3-13, located in the urban setting of St John's Wood, Westminster, Greater London. Established in 1905, the school claims to focus on whole-boy development, blending tradition and academic rigour with a boy-centred approach. It emphasizes values, confidence, and a strong sense of identity. The school also utilises a 7-acre site at Canons Park for outdoor learning, sports, and arts.
Ashford School is a co-educational independent day and boarding school situated across two campuses in Ashford, Kent. It caters to students aged 3 months to 18 years. The school claims to focus on "Inspiring Minds" and an educational philosophy that prioritizes student well-being as a foundation for success. It is affiliated with the United Church Schools Trust and is a member of the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference (HMC). The school is located near Ashford International station, offering strong transport links.
Situated in Chislehurst, Greater London, Babington House is an independent co-educational day school for pupils aged 3 to 18 years. The school claims its academic, social, and sporting endeavors are underpinned by core Christian values, aiming to develop confidence and individuality. Its campus includes a group of historical buildings and extensive playing fields, along with sports facilities.
Situated in Banstead, Surrey, Banstead Preparatory School is a co-educational preparatory school and nursery for children aged 2-11. The school claims to focus on nurturing independent learners, celebrating individuality, and fostering a love for discovery and exploration. Its stated central beliefs include "Be Safe, Be Ready, Be Respectful, Be Yourself, and most importantly, Be Kind.". The campus features on-site swimming and sports facilities, an all-weather pitch, a Forest School, science labs, and dedicated studios for Music, Art, Dance, and Drama..
Barfield Prep School is a co-educational day school for children aged 2 to 11, situated in Runfold, near Farnham, Surrey. The school is set within 12 acres of woodland, which includes facilities for extensive outdoor education. Founded in 1933, the school claims to foster curiosity, resilience, and a strong moral compass. It is described as having a warm, caring, and family-oriented ethos, with a focus on pastoral care.
Barrow Hills School is a co-educational independent day and nursery school located in Witley, Surrey, for pupils aged 2 to 13. Situated on 33 acres of woodland, formal gardens, and sports pitches, the school provides a rural learning environment with dedicated Forest School areas. The school claims to foster "curiosity of mind and independence of spirit" and emphasizes high-quality pastoral care, underpinned by a Christian affiliation.
Battle Abbey School is an independent coeducational day and boarding school for pupils aged three months to 18 years, situated in Battle and Bexhill, East Sussex. The Senior School occupies the historic site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings, utilising the 13th-century Abbot’s House and surrounding grounds. The school claims to foster an ethos of kindness, compassion, and mutual respect, prioritising individual pastoral care. Facilities include a dedicated Sixth Form centre and a preparatory department in Bexhill featuring extensive gardens and a 25-metre indoor swimming pool.