A direct grant school refers to a type of educational institution primarily found in the United Kingdom. The term "direct grant" originates from the government's policy in the mid-20th century, where certain schools were awarded direct financial assistance and grants from the state. These schools were able to maintain a level of independence in managing their affairs, while also being accountable to the government for their standards and curriculum.
Direct grant schools were typically secondary schools, catering to students between the ages of 11 and 18. They were usually fee-charging establishments, but also offered a specific number of free places to students from low-income backgrounds. These schools were known for their rigorous academic programs and often had excellent facilities and resources.
One distinctive characteristic of direct grant schools was their dual intake system — they admitted both students who paid fees and those who qualified for free places. This diverse intake composition allowed for a mixture of social classes within the student body, providing a unique educational experience.
However, in the late 1970s, the direct grant system was abolished, and most direct grant schools were required to choose between becoming fully independent and fee-paying or joining the state-funded comprehensive system. As a result, many direct grant schools either became private institutions or transitioned into voluntary aided or grammar schools.
In summary, a direct grant school historically referred to a fee-charging secondary educational institution in the United Kingdom that received financial assistance from the government. These schools had a distinct intake system, offering both fee-paying and free places, and provided a high-quality education.
