Get a free, indicative valuation based on real market data. No documents needed — it takes around 60 seconds.
Step 1 of 3
Trusted by owners across regulated sectors



Trusted by business owners



01
Everything we ask, you already know. No documents or financials needed. Takes around 60 seconds.

02
See what businesses like yours are selling for, based on up-to-date valuation multiples in your sector.
Indicative valuation range
£3.4m – £3.8m
03
Speak with an advisor who understands your market, can give you a more accurate valuation, and help you find the right buyer when you're ready.

Independent schools are valued on a multiple of adjusted earnings (EBITDA), but the valuation is often more complex than for other education businesses because of the property involved. Many independent schools own significant freehold property, which can represent a substantial proportion of the overall value. The business and property are usually assessed together, though in some cases buyers may structure the acquisition to separate the two.
Multiples for independent schools in the UK vary considerably, typically ranging from 4x to 8x adjusted earnings before any property premium. Smaller single-site schools may sit at the lower end, while well-known schools with strong academic results, full rolls, and valuable freehold estates can command significantly more. When we speak with buyers, they are looking for schools that combine academic reputation with financial sustainability. A school with a strong brand but thin margins is a harder proposition than one with a healthy surplus and room to grow.
An online calculator is a useful starting point. Speak with our team to understand what your independent school could realistically achieve.
The buyer landscape for independent schools is diverse. It includes established education groups looking to add to their portfolio, international operators seeking a UK presence, trusts and charitable organisations, and in some cases individuals with a personal interest in education. Private equity involvement is less common than in other education subsectors, though it does exist. Each buyer type has different motivations and may value different aspects of your school, which is why how you market the opportunity matters.
The market is more nuanced than it has been for some time. The introduction of VAT on fees has created uncertainty for some schools, particularly smaller ones in competitive local markets. At the same time, larger groups and international buyers remain active, and schools with strong fundamentals are still attracting good offers. For owners thinking about their options, the current environment makes it important to understand your position clearly before making any decisions.
Independent school sales are typically among the longer transactions in the education sector, often taking between eight and fourteen months. The complexity of the property, the need for ISI or DfE notification, TUPE for staff, and the sensitivity around communicating with parents and the school community all require careful handling. Planning the timeline around the academic year is also important. We generally advise owners to begin the process well ahead of when they want to complete.
An online valuation provides a broad indicative range, but independent schools have enough unique characteristics that a closer look is almost always needed. The property, the fee structure, the competitive landscape, and the regulatory position all need careful assessment. If the initial range is of interest, a confidential conversation will help us give you a much more accurate picture.