Best Schools - Independent schools put the welfare and safeguarding of their students first and comply with their l

In response to The Times article, (November 4, 2019) 'Gangs targeting private schools to traffic Asian girls to Britain, it is revealed', Robin Fletcher, Chief Executive of the Boarding Schools' Association (BSA) says:

"BSA boarding schools work tirelessly to uphold the high standards set by the Home Office when issuing a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) and take their responsibility for recruiting and safeguarding students international or domestic very seriously.

"Our schools understand that sponsorship is a privilege and not a right. As a sector we work in conjunction with Home Office officials to ensure the visa system is not exploited by criminals and immediately report any suspicion of foul play.

"A small number of criminals and rogue agents have tried to exploit the system and use some schools to traffic children. On the very rare occasion this has happened our schools followed proper procedures, reporting to the Home Office and police, and worked with all agencies to track down and secure the welfare of the pupils involved. As a result, the BSA issued guidance to members advising extreme caution when recruiting from Vietnam."

Robin Fletcher, CEO, Boarding Schools’ Association

The benefits of sports scholarships

Clifton College’s sports scholars have commented on the benefits of their scholarships in helping them towards their goals of playing sport professionally.

Andrew Wagstaff, director of sport at Clifton College, said: “Sport scholars at Clifton are given the opportunity to develop their talent, fitness and skill set through a performance sports programme.

“Within this programme they are able to train with other committed pupils and improve on sport specific strength and conditioning as well as sport specific skills and fitness.

“They have access to a sport physiotherapist for any injury concerns or rehabilitation and learn many skills from older role models who have proven that hard work and determination can position themselves on the performance pathway.”