Hello friends, welcome to the Tigerjek, In this post we will discuss the best schools in London. London is home to some of the finest schools in the world, but what sets the best schools in London apart is its commitment to excellence in every aspect of education. Known for its outstanding academic results, world-class faculty, and a nurturing environment, the school combines tradition with modern teaching methods to prepare students for future success. Beyond academics, it offers exceptional facilities, diverse extracurricular programs, and a strong focus on character development, ensuring every child grows into a confident, responsible, and globally-minded individual.
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The Henrietta Barnett School
The Henrietta Barnett School, often referred to as HBS, is one of London’s most prestigious selective grammar schools for girls. Founded in 1911 by social reformer Dame Henrietta Barnett, the school was created with the vision of providing first-class education to bright young women, regardless of their background.
Located in the heart of Hampstead Garden Suburb, the school is housed in a stunning Grade II* listed building designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. Over the years, the site has expanded to include modern facilities, such as the Hopkins Wings opened in 2011, which cater to arts, music, and technology while preserving the school’s historic character.
HBS consistently ranks among the top-performing schools in the UK. In recent years, it was named State Secondary School of the Year for Academic Excellence by The Sunday Times. Its students achieve outstanding results, with the majority securing top grades at GCSE and A-level. Many go on to study at leading universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, with a significant proportion of Oxbridge offers each year.
The school offers a broad and challenging curriculum. At lower levels, students study a wide range of subjects, from the sciences and mathematics to languages, humanities, and the arts. In the Sixth Form, girls typically take four A-levels, with the school encouraging independent learning and academic exploration.
Beyond academics, HBS places strong emphasis on creativity and personal development. Art, music, drama, and design technology all feature prominently, and students are given opportunities to take part in trips, clubs, and leadership roles.
Life at HBS is both academically demanding and culturally rich. Students often describe the community as close-knit and supportive, with a wide variety of societies and extracurricular activities available. While the pace can be intense, the school nurtures resilience, curiosity, and ambition, preparing its pupils for the challenges of higher education and beyond.
The school was rated Good overall in its most recent Ofsted inspection, with behaviour and attitudes graded as Outstanding. Parents and students frequently highlight the safe environment, high standards, and sense of pride in belonging to a school with such a strong academic tradition.
✨ In short, The Henrietta Barnett School blends historic charm with modern excellence, combining world-class academic outcomes with a rich cultural and personal development experience.
Queen Elizabeth’s School
Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet—often simply called QE Barnet—is one of the most prestigious grammar schools in the country. Founded in 1573 by royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I, the school has more than 450 years of history and tradition behind it. The original building, known as Tudor Hall, still stands on Wood Street, though the school moved to its present site on Queen’s Road in 1932 to accommodate a growing student body.
Today, QE Barnet is a selective grammar school for boys aged 11 to 18. With more than 1,300 pupils, the school is known for its highly academic environment and emphasis on personal development. Under the leadership of Headmaster Neil Enright, it continues to combine intellectual challenge with character-building, preparing students not only for top universities but also for leadership roles in wider society.
The school has consistently been recognised for its excellence. In its 2022 Ofsted inspection, QE Barnet was rated Outstanding in every category, including the quality of education, behaviour, leadership, and sixth-form provision.
In 2023, the school celebrated its 450th anniversary with a series of high-profile events. These included a thanksgiving service at Westminster Abbey, a visit from HRH the Duke of Gloucester, the launch of a new school banner, and the publication of a definitive history book chronicling the institution’s journey from the 16th century to the present day.
Looking forward, Queen Elizabeth’s School is expanding its influence beyond the UK. Through its QE Global Schools initiative, it is planning to open international branches in India and the UAE, with the aim of sharing its model of education worldwide. The income from these schools will be reinvested into improving facilities and opportunities for pupils in Barnet.
Deeply rooted in tradition yet forward-looking, QE Barnet stands as a symbol of academic rigour, strong values, and a commitment to shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
St Paul’s Girls’ School | Best schools in London
St Paul’s Girls’ School, often regarded as one of the most prestigious schools in the UK, has been shaping young women’s futures since its foundation in 1904. Located on Brook Green in Hammersmith, West London, the school was established by the Worshipful Company of Mercers as a female counterpart to the historic St Paul’s School for boys.
From the very beginning, the school was designed to provide an education of the highest quality, encouraging girls not only to excel academically but also to grow into confident, independent thinkers. Over the decades, it has built a reputation for academic excellence, creativity, and a strong sense of community.
St Paul’s Girls’ School consistently ranks at the very top of UK league tables. Its students achieve outstanding GCSE and A-level results, with a large proportion gaining places at Oxford, Cambridge, Ivy League, and other leading global universities. In recognition of this, The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide named it the London Independent School of the Year for Academic Excellence 2025.
The school balances rigorous academics with a culture that values curiosity and originality. Rather than teaching simply to exams, lessons encourage students to question, explore, and think critically—skills that serve them well far beyond the classroom.
Beyond academics, the school is known for its vibrant cultural life. With its strong musical heritage—Gustav Holst once served as Director of Music and composed The Planets during his tenure—the arts remain central to school life. Today, pupils enjoy outstanding opportunities in music, drama, art, and literature.
Sports and extracurricular activities are also woven into the fabric of the school. From lacrosse and rowing to debating, gardening, and drama clubs, there is something to inspire every student. Community spirit is nurtured through peer mentoring, charitable projects, and leadership opportunities.
Entry to St Paul’s is highly competitive, with main entry points at 11+ and 16+. The admissions process involves assessments and interviews, designed to identify bright, motivated, and well-rounded applicants.
While fees are among the highest in the country, the school is committed to accessibility. Generous bursaries are available, with some covering not only tuition but also books, trips, and uniforms, ensuring that talented girls from all backgrounds can benefit from a St Paul’s education.
The influence of St Paul’s Girls’ School extends far beyond its walls. Its alumnae include world-renowned figures such as Rosalind Franklin, whose work was central to the discovery of DNA’s structure, and award-winning actors like Rachel Weisz and Emily Mortimer. Journalists, politicians, scientists, and creatives alike credit the school with giving them the confidence and foundation to succeed.
In essence, St Paul’s Girls’ School is more than just a place of learning—it is a community that combines tradition with forward-thinking education, producing generations of women who go on to make their mark on the world.
Westminster School – Best schools in London
Westminster School is one of the oldest and most prestigious schools in the United Kingdom. Located within the historic precincts of Westminster Abbey, the school traces its roots back to the early 14th century when it was run by Benedictine monks. It was later secularised by Henry VIII and formally re-founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1560, giving it a royal heritage that still shapes its identity today.
The school is an independent day and boarding school with a strong Church of England tradition. It admits boys from the age of 13 and welcomes girls into the Sixth Form at 16, offering education up to 18. With around 750 pupils, about a quarter of whom board, it provides a close-knit yet highly ambitious environment.
Academically, Westminster School has an international reputation for excellence. A large proportion of its pupils go on to study at Oxford and Cambridge, and its recent A-level results show more than 80% of grades at A or A*. This consistent achievement places it among the top schools in the country and the world.
Beyond academics, Westminster is known for its traditions and distinctive culture. The King’s (or Queen’s) Scholars, a select group of pupils chosen through rigorous examinations, have a unique role in state occasions at Westminster Abbey and a history of privileges dating back centuries. At the same time, the school promotes modern values, encouraging students to engage in debate, music, sport, drama, and community projects.
Leadership today rests with Dr Gary Savage, the current Head Master, under whom the school has maintained both high standards and a focus on personal growth. Inspections by the Independent Schools Inspectorate have highlighted the exceptional initiative, independence, and social contribution of its pupils.
Balancing a remarkable history with a forward-looking approach, Westminster School remains a place where tradition meets innovation, shaping young people who go on to play significant roles in society.
The Latymer School
The Latymer School, located in Edmonton, North London, is one of the capital’s most respected and high-achieving grammar schools. Founded in 1624 by Edward Latymer, the school has a long history of providing an outstanding education to bright young people, regardless of their background. Today, it continues that tradition, combining academic excellence with a broad and enriching student experience.
The Latymer School consistently ranks among the top state schools in the UK. Known for its rigorous academic standards, it offers a challenging curriculum that encourages pupils to aim high and think critically. Students regularly achieve exceptional results at GCSE and A-level, with many progressing to leading universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and other Russell Group institutions.
Life at Latymer extends well beyond the classroom. The school has a strong tradition of music, drama, and sports, giving students opportunities to explore their talents and passions. From orchestras and theatre productions to debating societies and sports teams, the school fosters creativity, leadership, and teamwork.
Community and service also play an important role in the Latymer ethos. Pupils are encouraged to engage in charitable projects and local initiatives, helping them develop a sense of responsibility and social awareness alongside their academic pursuits.
At its heart, The Latymer School is a place where ambition meets opportunity. It is known for nurturing a friendly, supportive environment where students feel motivated to do their best while being part of a diverse and inclusive community. The school’s motto, “Qui Patitur Vincit” (“He who endures, conquers”), reflects its emphasis on resilience, hard work, and achievement.
In short, The Latymer School is not only one of London’s leading grammar schools but also a vibrant community where students are encouraged to excel academically, express their creativity, and grow into confident, responsible young adults.
The Tiffin Girls’ School
The Tiffin Girls’ School is one of London’s most respected grammar schools, known for its academic excellence and vibrant community. Founded in 1880, the school was established through the educational bequest of the Tiffin brothers, whose charitable foundation dates back to the 17th century. From its earliest days, the school has carried forward the motto Sapere Aude—“dare to be wise”—which still reflects its ethos today.
Located on Richmond Road in Kingston upon Thames, the school educates around 1,200 girls aged 11 to 18. Admission is highly competitive, with thousands of applicants sitting the 11+ exams each year for a limited number of places. Once admitted, students find themselves part of a diverse, ambitious, and supportive community.
Academically, the school is recognised among the very best in the country. In its most recent Ofsted inspection (2021), it was rated Outstanding across all areas, with inspectors praising not only the high standards of teaching but also the pupils’ exceptional behaviour, curiosity, and engagement. Parents overwhelmingly recommend the school, highlighting both the strong academic results and the well-rounded development of their children.
Beyond the classroom, Tiffin Girls’ offers an exceptionally wide range of opportunities. Students can take part in more than 75 sports teams, join debating societies, perform in drama productions, or pursue music and arts at a high level. The school is also closely connected with the Tiffin School Boat Club, offering girls the rare chance to row competitively, even at prestigious events like the Henley Royal Regatta.
Recent years have seen major investment in facilities, including the Rivermead building for drama and design technology and a new sports centre that enhances the already rich extracurricular life. These developments ensure that pupils have access to modern resources alongside the school’s strong traditions.
Under the leadership of Headteacher Ian Keary, the school continues to blend academic rigour with personal growth. Its core values—Community, Love of Learning, and Character—are visible in everything from classroom teaching to student-led initiatives and leadership roles.
With its long history, excellent reputation, and forward-looking outlook, The Tiffin Girls’ School remains a place where talented young women are encouraged not only to succeed academically but also to develop the confidence, resilience, and character to thrive beyond school.
Tiffin School – Best schools in London
Tiffin School, located in Kingston upon Thames, South West London, is one of the leading grammar schools for boys in the UK. Established in 1880, the school has built a strong reputation for academic excellence, a rich co-curricular programme, and a tradition of nurturing well-rounded young men who go on to achieve success in a wide range of fields.
The school is consistently ranked among the top-performing state schools in the country. Its students achieve outstanding GCSE and A-level results, with a high proportion progressing to Oxbridge, Russell Group universities, and leading international institutions. Tiffin places great emphasis not only on exam success but also on encouraging intellectual curiosity, independent thinking, and a lifelong passion for learning.
Tiffin offers a dynamic student experience that goes well beyond the classroom. The school is widely recognised for its strength in the arts, particularly music and drama. Its choirs and orchestras are internationally renowned, performing at prestigious venues and events across the UK and abroad.
Sport also plays a central role at Tiffin, with students competing in rugby, cricket, rowing, athletics, and other disciplines at regional and national levels. Alongside this, a wide range of clubs and societies, from debating to coding, gives every student the chance to explore their interests and develop new skills.
Tiffin School is committed to providing opportunities based on ability and potential, regardless of background. Its diverse and inclusive community fosters respect, ambition, and resilience, preparing students to thrive in a global society. The school’s motto, “Faire sans dire” (“To do without saying”), reflects its values of humility, determination, and achievement through action.
In short, Tiffin School is more than just an academic powerhouse—it is a vibrant community where students are inspired to excel, explore their passions, and grow into confident and responsible young men.
North London Collegiate School
North London Collegiate School (NLCS), situated in Edgware, London, is one of the UK’s most prestigious independent day schools for girls. Founded in 1850 by the pioneering educator Frances Mary Buss, the school has a long history of championing academic excellence and promoting opportunities for young women. Today, NLCS remains a leader in education, renowned for its rigorous academics, vibrant extracurricular life, and commitment to developing confident, compassionate, and ambitious students.
NLCS consistently achieves outstanding academic results, regularly ranking among the very top schools in the country. Students excel in GCSEs and A-levels, with a large proportion gaining entry into Oxbridge, Ivy League, and other world-leading universities. The school encourages intellectual curiosity and critical thinking, pushing students beyond the curriculum to explore, question, and develop independence in their learning.
Life at NLCS is dynamic and enriching. The school offers an exceptional range of extracurricular activities, including debating, drama, music, sports, and community service. NLCS has a particularly strong tradition in the performing arts, with choirs, orchestras, and theatre productions of the highest calibre.
Sports also play a vital role, with excellent facilities and teams competing successfully at local, national, and even international levels. Students are encouraged to balance their academic commitments with creativity, leadership, and personal growth.
At the heart of NLCS is a philosophy that education should be challenging, inspiring, and empowering. The school fosters an inclusive and supportive environment, where students from diverse backgrounds feel valued and motivated to achieve their full potential. Strong pastoral care and a focus on well-being ensure that pupils are nurtured not just as scholars, but as individuals ready to contribute positively to society.
In essence, North London Collegiate School is more than just a place of learning—it is a community that inspires ambition, creativity, and resilience, producing generations of young women who excel academically while making a meaningful impact in the wider world.
Wilson’s School – Best schools in London
Wilson’s School is a highly regarded grammar school for boys in Wallington, Sutton, with a proud history stretching back to its foundation in 1615 by Edward Wilson, vicar of Camberwell. Today, it stands as one of the top-performing state schools in the country, known not just for its exceptional academic standards but also for the values and character it instills in its pupils.
The school educates boys aged 11 to 18, with entry through a selective 11+ examination. Around 1,300 students attend, including a vibrant sixth form, where boys continue to excel in a wide range of A-level subjects. Wilson’s consistently achieves outstanding results, with many pupils progressing to Oxford, Cambridge, and other Russell Group universities, as well as leading institutions abroad.
Ofsted has rated the school “Outstanding”, and it regularly ranks among the very best in national league tables. Yet Wilson’s is about far more than exam results. Its ethos is rooted in excellence, integrity, and respect, ensuring that pupils grow into well-rounded young men. Leadership, responsibility, and service are central to school life, with students encouraged to contribute positively to both the school community and the wider world.
The school also has a strong tradition in co-curricular activities. Sport plays a significant role, with football and cricket particularly prominent, alongside athletics, music, drama, and a wide range of clubs and societies. Wilson’s CCF (Combined Cadet Force) is one of the largest in the country, reflecting the school’s strong links with service and leadership training.
Modern facilities complement its rich heritage, offering students an environment where tradition meets innovation. Under the guidance of Headmaster Dr. Michael Kiely, Wilson’s School continues to uphold its historic reputation while preparing its pupils for the demands of the modern world.
With a unique blend of academic rigour, character-building, and opportunity, Wilson’s School remains one of the most respected grammar schools in London and beyond.
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