Choosing the best school in London can feel confusing. One minute you are looking at a map, and the next you are staring at a long list of “Ofsted” ratings and “IB” programs. With so many options, how do you pick the right one for your child?
London is home to some of the most famous schools in the world. Whether you want a historic private school or a high-performing free state school, this city has it all.
What are the best schools in London?
The best schools in London include top private schools like Westminster and St Paul’s, strong public (state) schools like Brampton Manor, and elite international schools. The right choice depends on your budget, where you live, and your child’s unique personality.
Top 7 Best Schools in London
If you are looking for a quick shortlist of the most respected names, here they are:
- Westminster School (Private – Famous for academics)
- St Paul’s Girls’ School (Private – Best for high-achieving girls)
- Brampton Manor Academy (Public – Incredible results for university)
- The Henrietta Barnett School (Grammar/Public – Top-tier girls’ education)
- Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet (Grammar/Public – Top for boys)
- The American School in London (International – Best for US curriculum)
- Southbank International School (International – Best for the IB)
Best Private Schools in London:
Private schools (often called “independent schools” in the UK) are famous for small classes and amazing sports and arts facilities. Here are the heavy hitters.
1. Westminster School
Located right next to Westminster Abbey, this is one of the oldest and most famous schools in the world. It feels like a piece of history.
- Why it’s famous: It sends a huge number of students to Oxford and Cambridge every year.
- Type: Private (Boys 13-18, Co-ed for Sixth Form).
- Estimated Fees: £30,000 – £45,000+ per year.
- Best for: Students who love a fast-paced, intellectual environment.
- Pro Tip: Admission is very competitive. Start planning at least three years in advance.
2. St Paul’s Girls’ School
Located in Hammersmith, this school is widely considered the best academic school for girls in the country.
- Why it’s famous: They don’t just follow the curriculum; they encourage girls to think for themselves.
- Type: Private (Girls 11-18).
- Estimated Fees: £28,000 – £35,000+ per year.
- Best for: Highly motivated girls who enjoy creative and academic challenges.
- Pro Tip: They don’t wear uniforms here, which creates a more relaxed, “university-style” vibe.
3. King’s College School (KCS)
Situated in beautiful Wimbledon, KCS offers a great balance between sports and heavy-duty academics.
- Why it’s famous: Exceptional A-Level and IB results.
- Type: Private (Boys 7-18, Co-ed for Sixth Form).
- Estimated Fees: £25,000 – £30,000+ per year.
- Best for: All-rounders who want to do well in the classroom and on the rugby pitch.
- Pro Tip: The school has a very friendly community feel compared to some “stiff” London schools.
Best Public (State) Schools in London:
In the UK, “public” schools actually mean free, government-funded schools (though confusingly, some old private schools call themselves public schools too!). Many London state schools are better than private ones!
1.Brampton Manor Academy
This school in East London has become a legend. It consistently gets more students into top universities than even the most expensive private schools.
- Cost: Free.
- Why it’s famous: Its incredible “Sixth Form” results and high expectations for every student.
- Ofsted Rating: Outstanding.
2.Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet
This is a “Grammar School,” which means students must pass a test (the 11 Plus) to get in.
- Cost: Free.
- Why it’s famous: It is often ranked #1 in the entire country for state school results.
- Best for: Boys who are very gifted in math and science.
Best Primary Schools in London:
If your child is young (ages 4 to 11), you want a school that is nurturing but also builds a strong foundation.
- Fox Primary School (Notting Hill): Consistently one of the highest-rated state primaries in the city.
- St Peter’s CE Primary School (Hammersmith): Known for a lovely community and great music programs.
- Thomas’s Battersea (Private): Famous for being the school attended by Prince George. It focuses on “being kind.”
Best Secondary Schools in London:
For ages 11 to 18, focus shifts toward exams and preparing for life.
- The Grey Coat Hospital (Westminster): A fantastic Church of England state school for girls.
- Dulwich College (Private): A massive, beautiful campus in South London with a focus on “free learning.”
- Highgate School (Private): A co-educational school that is very popular with North London families.
Best Schools in London for International Students:
If you are moving to London from abroad, you might want a school that offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) or a US-style curriculum.
1.The American School in London (ASL)
Located in St. John’s Wood, this is the go-to for American families. It follows the US curriculum and has a high-tech campus.
- Curriculum: American High School Diploma / AP.
- Fees: £32,000 – £38,000+.
2.Southbank International School
With campuses in Kensington and Westminster, this is a truly global school.
- Curriculum: Full International Baccalaureate (IB).
- Fees: £25,000 – £35,000+.
- Pro Tip: It’s great for “Global Nomads” because it’s very easy for kids to fit in quickly.
School Fees in London:
Education in London can be expensive if you go the private route.
- Tuition: Most private schools charge between £20,000 and £40,000 per year.
- Registration & Deposits: Usually around £200 to apply and a much larger deposit (often a full term’s fees) to hold your spot.
- Extra Costs: Don’t forget uniforms (£300+), school trips, music lessons, and the school bus.
- State Schools: These are 100% free for residents, but you must live in the “catchment area” (very close to the school).
How to Choose the Right School in London?
Here is a quick checklist to help you decide:
- Budget: Can you afford private fees, or do you need a top-tier state school?
- Location: London traffic is no joke. Choose a school that is a manageable commute.
- Your Child’s Vibe: Is your child a “mathlete” or an artist? Some schools are academic pressure cookers; others are more creative.
- Ofsted Ratings: Check the government website. “Outstanding” is what you want to see for state schools.
Travel Tips for Parents: The “London School Run”
- Deadlines: For state schools, you usually apply in January for primary and October for secondary. Private schools often close applications a year in advance!
- The Catchment Area: For free schools, your house often needs to be within a few hundred meters of the school gates.
- Waiting Lists: Don’t lose hope. Places open up all the time as families move out of London.
FAQs
What are the best schools in London? The “best” depends on your child, but Westminster, St Paul’s, and Brampton Manor are consistently at the top of the charts for results.
Are public schools free in London? Yes, public (state) schools are free for all children living in the UK.
How much are school fees in London? Private school fees usually range from £6,000 to £15,000 per term (there are 3 terms in a year).
What is the best school for international students? The American School in London or Southbank International are the most popular for families who move frequently.
How do I apply for schools in London? For state schools, apply through your local “Council” (Borough) website. For private schools, apply directly on the school’s website.
Finding a school in London is a big journey, but you have incredible options. Whether you choose a historic private school with 500 years of history or a modern, high-performing state academy, London’s education system is designed to help kids succeed.
Take your time, visit the schools on their “Open Days,” and trust your gut feeling. You’ll know the right school when you walk through the front door!
Which type of school are you considering for your child? Leave a comment and let’s chat!