The majority of Scottish independent schools are registered charities, as their purpose is the advancement of education.

The organisation has a small staff team of six,[8] and provides a range of Professional Learning and Development (CPD),[9] communications and marketing for the independent sector, advice and guidance to parents and families, and liaison with the Scottish Government, Scottish Parliament, public and education bodies.

It is governed by a Board composed of elected Heads, Chairs and Bursars of independent schools in membership.

[10] SCIS works in association with the Independent Schools Council on UK-wide matters.

The main functions of SCIS are: SCIS's key aims are to deliver the following specific services through CPD, regulatory and legal guidance, and additional events and publications: Service to Schools: Promoting the Sector: Service to Education: SCIS represents over 70 member schools in Scotland,[2] including:[11]