Founded in the early 1990s, the ISMLA is a professional network dedicated to supporting modern language teachers and departments within the independent sector. It provides a forum for educators to share best practices, resources, and ideas through annual conferences and regional meetings. Beyond professional development, the association acts as a representative voice for the sector, lobbying government bodies (such as the DfE and Ofqual) and examination boards on issues like curriculum changes and severe grading. It also works to foster cooperation between independent and state schools to promote language learning nationally.
ISMLA Member Schools (36)
Mill Hill School is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 13 to 18, set within 120 acres of parkland in North London. Established in 1807 by Nonconformist ministers and merchants, the school occupies grounds that formerly belonged to the botanist Peter Collinson. The campus features notable architecture, including the Greco-Roman School House by Sir William Tite and a chapel designed by Basil Champneys. The school provides a broad education that balances academic study with a diverse co-curricular programme, supported by facilities such as an indoor swimming pool and a dedicated theatre.
The Royal Masonic School for Girls is an independent day and boarding school for pupils aged 2 to 18, set within 315 acres of parkland in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire. Founded in 1788 to provide for the daughters of Freemasons, the school relocated to its present site in 1934. The campus features a blend of historic architecture and modern facilities, including a planetarium, a dedicated performing arts centre, and extensive sports grounds. The school focuses on nurturing individual talent and potential, offering a broad curriculum alongside a diverse range of extracurricular activities.
Lingfield College is a co-educational independent day school for pupils aged 2 to 18, situated in 40 acres of grounds in the Surrey countryside. Originally founded in 1940 by the Sisters of Notre Dame des Missions, the school transitioned from its origins as a convent school to its current secular status. The college emphasises a well-rounded education, combining academic study with a focus on pastoral care and extracurricular engagement. Facilities include a dedicated Sixth Form Centre and extensive sporting grounds, supporting a curriculum designed to foster individual growth and community spirit.
Ashford School is a co-educational independent day and boarding school in Kent for pupils aged three months to 18 years. Founded in 1898, the school operates across two campuses: the Senior School at East Hill and the Prep School in the village of Great Chart. Facilities include an All-Steinway music school, indoor swimming pools, and a modern sports centre. Part of the United Learning group, the school occupies a 25-acre main site and incorporates a Grade II listed building. The curriculum is designed to foster individual character and adventurous learning.
Wimbledon High School GDST is an independent day school for girls aged 4 to 18, situated in the heart of Wimbledon, London. Founded in 1880 by the Girls’ Day School Trust, the school occupies a town-centre site featuring Victorian buildings and modern additions, including a dedicated STEAM tower. Its playing fields at Nursery Road possess significant sporting heritage as the original home of the All England Lawn Tennis Club. The school focuses on fostering intellectual curiosity and resilience, encouraging pupils to explore a broad range of academic and co-curricular opportunities.
St Albans School is an independent day school for boys aged 11 to 18, with a co-educational Sixth Form. Situated adjacent to St Albans Cathedral, it is one of the world’s oldest schools, tracing its history back to 948 AD. The school occupies a historic campus including the 14th-century Abbey Gateway. Its ethos emphasises academic rigour and holistic development. Facilities include the Woollams playing fields and a modern sports centre with a swimming pool, as well as dedicated buildings for science and music, supporting a curriculum that blends traditional scholarship with contemporary learning.
Cranleigh Senior School is a co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 13 to 18, set within 280 acres of the Surrey Hills. Established in 1865, the school features striking Grade II listed red brick Victorian architecture, including a central quadrangle and chapel designed by Henry Woodyer. Guided by the motto 'Ex Cultu Robur' (From Culture Comes Strength), the school fosters a community-focused ethos. Extensive facilities include an on-site equestrian centre, a nine-hole golf course, and a robotics hub, supporting a broad curriculum that balances academic, sporting, and creative pursuits.
Caterham School is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18, situated in the Harestone Valley in Surrey. Set within a 200-acre campus, the school was founded in 1811 and moved to its current location in 1884. It provides a broad curriculum with a strong emphasis on digital innovation, being recognised as an Apple Distinguished School. Facilities include a performing arts centre, a large sports complex, and extensive woodland used for outdoor education. The school fosters an environment focused on both academic achievement and personal development.
Frensham Heights is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18, situated on a 120-acre estate near Farnham, Surrey. Founded in 1925, the school maintains a progressive ethos where students do not wear a uniform and staff are addressed by their first names. The campus is centred around a Grade II listed Edwardian mansion and features a dedicated performing arts centre. The school emphasises individual development and creative expression, offering a broad curriculum that includes a strong focus on outdoor education and the arts.
Westminster School is a historic boarding and day school for pupils aged 13 to 18, located within the Precincts of Westminster Abbey. Refounded by Elizabeth I in 1560, it is the only ancient school to remain on its original site in central London. The school is centred around Little Dean’s Yard and includes notable architecture such as the 14th-century College Hall. It provides a liberal education that encourages independent thought and academic rigour. Facilities include the 13-acre Vincent Square playing fields and a modern sports centre. Girls are currently admitted to the Sixth Form.
Haileybury is a co-educational independent day and boarding school for pupils aged 11 to 18, set within a 500-acre campus in Hertford Heath. Established in 1862 on the site of the former East India College, the school is home to historic architecture, including a chapel by Arthur Blomfield and one of the largest academic quadrangles in the UK. Academically, the school offers both A-levels and the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Facilities include a recently developed Science and Technology Centre, which supports an ethos focused on intellectual curiosity and global citizenship.
St Paul's Girls' School is an independent day school for girls aged 11 to 18, located in Brook Green, Hammersmith. Founded in 1904 by the Worshipful Company of Mercers, the school is primarily housed in a Grade II listed Arts and Crafts building designed by Gerald Horsley. Its ethos combines academic tradition with a progressive focus on innovation and the arts. Facilities include the Rosalind Franklin Wing, a centre for design and technology. The school maintains a distinguished musical heritage, notably through its association with composer Gustav Holst, a former Director of Music.