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 (34)
Situated in Eastbourne on the East Sussex coast, Eastbourne College is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 13 to 18. Established in 1867, the school is located between the beach and the South Downs, describing itself as a ‘blue health school’ that promotes well-being through its maritime environment. The campus features the Birley Centre and the Winn Building, offering a mix of modern and traditional facilities. The school claims to focus on a holistic education underpinned by its core values of excellence, integrity, participation, and kindness.
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.
St Albans High School for Girls (STAHS) is an independent day school for pupils aged 4 to 18. Established in 1889, the school operates across two Hertfordshire sites: the Senior School in central St Albans and the Preparatory School set within 18 acres of parkland in Wheathampstead. Rooted in the Church of England tradition, the school follows a "Teach to 25" philosophy. Facilities include a performing arts centre, an indoor swimming pool, and extensive sports grounds for lacrosse and tennis, alongside a modern Sixth Form centre.
Godolphin and Latymer School is an independent day school for girls aged 11 to 18, situated in Hammersmith, West London. Established in 1861 as a boys’ school, it was reconstituted in 1905 with support from the Latymer Foundation. The campus features Victorian architecture alongside contemporary facilities, notably the Bishop Centre for performing arts, housed in a converted church designed by William Butterfield. Students in the Sixth Form choose between A Levels and the International Baccalaureate Diploma. The school’s ethos encourages intellectual curiosity, independent thought, and a commitment to social responsibility.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Lancing College is a co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 13 to 18. Situated in West Sussex, east of Worthing, the school is set within 330 acres of the South Downs National Park. Founded in 1848 by Nathaniel Woodard, it operates as a Christian foundation in the Anglican tradition. The school claims to focus on inspiring a desire for excellence, fostering independent minds, and promoting Christian values and community contribution.
Queen's Gate School is an independent day school for girls aged 4 to 18, located in South Kensington, London. Occupying five Victorian terrace houses near the capital’s major museums, the school provides an urban learning environment that utilises local landmarks as an extended classroom. Founded in 1891 by Eleanor Beatrice Wyatt, the school emphasises individuality within a supportive atmosphere and is notable for its lack of a prescribed uniform. The broad academic curriculum is enhanced by the regular use of nearby facilities, including the Royal Albert Hall and Imperial College.
University College School is an independent day school situated in Frognal, Hampstead, for pupils aged 4 to 18. Founded in 1830 by University College London, it was established on Benthamite principles to promote liberal scholarship and intellectual curiosity. The main campus features a Grade II listed Edwardian building and includes facilities such as an 800-seat Great Hall and the Sir Roger Bannister Sports Centre. While the school is historically for boys, the Sixth Form is co-educational, offering a progressive environment that emphasises individuality and a breadth of academic and extracurricular pursuits.
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.