Why join IAPS?

IAPS is a professional association for Heads, with over 660 members in prep, junior and pre-prep schools in the UK and overseas.  Founded in 1892, it is the largest Heads’ association within the Independent Schools Council (ISC). Schools must reach a very high standard to be eligible for membership, with strict criteria on teaching a broad curriculum, maintaining excellent standards of pastoral care and keeping staff members’ professional development training up to date. 

Members of IAPS benefit from;
  • A kitemark of quality, IAPS accredits only those schools that can demonstrate the highest standards of education. Membership, once granted, creates links to other schools which offer a truly world class education
  • Affiliation to an organisation that represents over 660 of the leading prep schools in the UK and worldwide, offering an elite professional network of leaders of prep and junior schools across the globe
  • A team of full-time advisers based at HQ, who have extensive experience of leading and supporting schools, available to offer professional and personal support to members and their schools
  • Access to a network of recognised consultants who are available for specialist advice
  • An education support service to advise and assist member schools in the drive for continuous improvement. A team of specialist Subject Advisers who can provide advice on what is new and innovative across the taught curriculum
  • An extensive range of Courses and Conferences designed specifically for Heads, senior managers, teachers and support staff in prep schools
  • Access to the online CPD platform IAPS Digital Academy
  • Advice on school management and administration
  • Advice and support on communications and public relations issues
  • Access to online forums for the exchange of ideas on current issues
  • Regular communication, including the latest information and advice on educational matters, school management issues and news shared on social media
  • A comprehensive induction and coaching programme for new members
  • Opportunities for fellowship and networking at the IAPS Annual Conference and through termly meetings in each IAPS district
  • National and international influence as the voice of early years, primary and middle school independent education
  • Access to a wide range of sporting tournaments and competitions for pupils
  • Access to advertising of vacancies via the IAPS Jobs portal
  • The defence and promotion of prep school education
  • The services of the Independent Schools Council (ISC)
  • Access to the NQT programme offered by the Independent Schools Teacher Induction Panel (IStip)