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Perthshire independent school 'bucking the trend'

Posted on 16th January 2009

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A Perthshire independent school appears to be bucking the trend by registering an oversubscription to places.

Catholic girls school Kilgraston is currently experiencing a healthy interest in places at the school, with a waiting list for places.

Principal Mike Farmer told the Courier that the "strong boarding" and the fact that pupils are taken from overseas means that the school has a "different perspective" to other institutions.

He was speaking in response to comments made by new president of the Girls' Schools Association Jill Berry, who argued that the economic downturn could benefit the independent sector because it will end the "arms race" for facilities.

Mr Farmer told the paper that he disagrees with this view, stating: "I don't think you can just stop investing."

He noted that Kilgraston has just completed a new swimming pool and is planning to continue major refurbishment of the boarding areas and IT facilities.

However, he urged caution against "massive borrowing", adding that "you have got to be able to invest from your own income".