Because these schools are all alternative schools they stand, reluctantly, outside the state sector. Their founders feel that the educational values which led to the setting up of the schools in the first place would be compromised by inclusion in the state system which demands strict adherence to the National Curriculum, SATS and League Tables. Such schools would like to join the state sector if they were able to retain their own educational values. At present they are compelled to charge fees in order to survive. Any fees charged are kept as low as possible and in some cases schools receive payment in kind rather than money.
Much energy has to be spent on fund raising.
Small Schools A report by Rosalyn Spencer. HSE Information Pack. Setting up a Small School by Fiona Carnie. 78 pages A compendium of practical advice for parents, teachers, home educators and anyone else interested in setting up their own project. The pack includes sections on applying for charitable status, finding premises, funding registration with the DfEE, working with parents, finding teachers, creating a curriculum and more.