The number of day pupils attending independent schools in Oxfordshire is on the increase, according to new figures out today.

There are now 8,000 pupils attending 31 independent schools in the county - eight per cent more than last year.

Organisers at the Independent Schools Information Service (ISIS) described the increase as "remarkable" as it did not include children in the Government Assisted Places Scheme.

David Shepherd, regional director of ISIS, said: "The increase is a tribute to the high quality and range of independent schools available in the county. "It also shows the extent to which many of the schools have been successful in making alternative arrangements for those children who were previously awarded Government Assisted Places."

The number of boarders at schools in the county now stands at 3,919, an increase of nearly four per cent on last year's figure.

This contrasts strongly with the country as a whole, where there is a decline in boarding.

The average day fee now stands at £1,670, up five per cent on last year.

Oxfordshire County Council education spokesman John Mitchell said the increase did not demonstrate any problems with state education. He said: "There is a much higher proportion of independent schools in Oxfordshire than elsewhere in Britain.

"This news certainly shouldn't be seen as disaffection with the Oxfordshire education system."

Story date: Thursday 29 April

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