The main difference between state and private schools in the United Kingdom is how they are funded and accessed, which is an important choice for expats. For expats, state schools are government-funded and free to attend, with places allocated by local councils based largely on catchment areas. They follow the national curriculum and are inspected regularly. Private schools, also known as independent schools, charge tuition fees and are funded by parents rather than the state. Expats in the UK choosing private schools often do so for smaller class sizes, additional facilities, or specific educational approaches. Private schools have more flexibility over their curriculum and admissions criteria. However, fees can be high, especially in major cities. Expats in the UK should weigh cost, location, academic outcomes, and their child’s needs when deciding between state and private education.