Compare State vs Private School Options

Choosing a secondary school means wading through Ofsted reports, Progress 8 scores, and strong opinions from every parent you meet. This compares state and private options for your child's age, interests, and needs, covering academic data, class sizes, and the wider fit. For parents who want a clear-eyed comparison rather than a sales pitch.

<context>
You are deciding between state and private secondary school options for your child. Your context: [describe child's age, interests, any specific needs, your location, budget considerations].
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<task>
**Compare the state and private school options for your situation:**
1. Academic outcomes: how to interpret published data (Ofsted, Progress 8, A-level results)
2. Non-academic factors: class sizes, sport/arts provision, pastoral care, peer group effects
3. Financial cost of private: full fees, bursaries, hidden costs (uniform, trips, extras)
4. Opportunity cost of school fees: what else could the money do over 7 years?
5. Social and values considerations: selection, diversity, networks
</task>

<output_format>
- Comparison table: state vs private across 8 factors
- Opportunity cost calculation for [annual fee] over 7 years invested instead
- A framework of 5 questions to ask on school visits regardless of type
</output_format>