Navigating private education in London can feel a bit overwhelming for parents and students. This guide aims to make it easier by highlighting top private schools for 2025, focusing on academic success, extracurricular activities, and the all-around development of students. Notably, The Degree Gap stands out as a supportive tutoring service aimed at helping students from these prestigious schools reach the grades they need for university. Featured schools like St Paul's Girls’ School and St Paul's School boast impressive A-level results, while King’s College School prioritises well-rounded education through sports and arts. With these insights, parents can make choices that truly fit their children's aspirations.
Private education in London offers a unique blend of academic excellence and personal development. The city is home to a diverse range of private schools, each with its own ethos and approach to teaching. Many of these institutions are steeped in tradition, yet they are committed to modern educational practises that cater to the needs of today's students. For instance, schools like St Paul's Girls' School and Westminster School not only prioritise academic achievements but also encourage students to engage in extracurricular activities that foster creativity and teamwork.
Parents often seek out private education for its perceived advantages, including smaller class sizes, tailored curricula, and a wealth of resources. The competitive nature of London’s private schools means that students are encouraged to excel from an early age. This environment can be particularly beneficial for those aiming for top universities, as schools frequently offer extensive support for A-levels and university applications.
Moreover, the diverse cultural landscape of London enriches the educational experience, exposing students to various perspectives and ideas. Schools often organise trips, workshops, and events that allow students to explore subjects beyond the classroom. The emphasis on a well-rounded education is evident, with many schools integrating arts, sports, and community service into their programmes. By fostering a sense of responsibility and creativity, these institutions prepare students not just for academic success, but for life beyond school.
The Degree Gap plays a crucial role in bridging the academic divide many students face, especially in the competitive environment of London’s private schools. With a tailored approach to learning, it provides students with the opportunity to receive one-on-one support from tutors who have excelled academically themselves. This personalised tutoring is designed to identify and address individual learning needs, whether that’s mastering complex A-level subjects or honing essay-writing skills for university applications. For instance, a student struggling with mathematics can benefit from focused sessions that not only enhance understanding but also build confidence, enabling them to tackle exams with greater ease.
Furthermore, The Degree Gap understands the pressures that come with high expectations and rigorous academic standards. By offering strategies for effective study habits and time management, students are better equipped to handle their workload. This holistic support is essential, as it not only aims for top grades but also fosters a love for learning—an invaluable asset for any student. Whether it’s through group workshops or individual sessions, The Degree Gap is committed to guiding students through their academic journey, ensuring they achieve their goals and feel prepared for the challenges of higher education.
Private schools in London offer a unique blend of academic excellence and personal growth. St Paul's Girls' School stands out with its impressive 98.5% of GCSEs awarded at the top grades, fostering an environment where girls thrive academically while also engaging in a wide range of extracurricular activities. Meanwhile, St Paul's School, with its historic roots, is transitioning to include girls starting in 2026, a significant step towards inclusivity that adds to its strong academic reputation with 98% of A-levels achieving A*/B.
King’s College School in Wimbledon also shines, boasting a balanced approach to education, evident in its 98.6% of GCSEs at top grades, ensuring students are well-rounded individuals. Westminster School, known for its rich traditions, is making strides towards full integration of girls by 2028, demonstrating a commitment to modern educational practises while maintaining high academic standards.
Godolphin and Latymer provides a supportive community for girls, achieving 96.4% A*/B at A-levels, and is recognised for nurturing talent in various fields. Other notable schools, such as North London Collegiate and Highgate School, also contribute to this competitive landscape, offering a mix of academic rigour and vibrant extracurricular programmes.
These institutions not only excel in academics but are also dedicated to developing well-rounded individuals ready to face future challenges.
|
School Name |
Location |
Entry Gender |
A levels (% A*/B) |
GCSEs (% A*/A/9/8/7) |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
St Paul's Girls' School |
London |
Girls |
98.2% |
98.5% |
|
|
St Paul's School |
London |
Boys |
98% |
97.5% |
|
|
King’s College School, Wimbledon |
London |
Boys |
97.4% |
98.6% |
|
|
Westminster School |
London |
Boys |
96.8% |
98.7% |
|
|
Godolphin and Latymer |
London |
Girls |
96.4% |
97.8% |
|
|
North London Collegiate School |
London |
Girls |
96.9% |
96.3% |
|
|
City of London School for Girls |
London |
Girls |
96.6% |
95.2% |
|
|
Highgate School |
London |
Boys/Girls |
95.8% |
94.8% |
|
St Paul's Girls' School stands out as a beacon of academic excellence, consistently achieving remarkable results. With an impressive 98.5% of its students attaining A*/A grades at GCSE and 98.2% achieving A*/B at A-levels, the school's commitment to high academic standards is evident. Notably, in 2023, 80.5% of GCSE entries secured a grade 9, underscoring the school's ability to challenge and inspire its students to reach their full potential.
Beyond grades, the school fosters a nurturing environment that encourages intellectual curiosity and personal growth. With a diverse curriculum that integrates the arts, sciences, and humanities, students are well-prepared for the rigours of university and beyond. The school also places significant emphasis on extracurricular activities, ensuring that students develop holistically. From debating societies to sports teams, girls are encouraged to explore their interests and develop essential life skills.
The faculty comprises passionate educators who provide personalised support, helping each student navigate their academic journey. This dedication to individual growth is further enhanced by partnerships with organisations like The Degree Gap, which offers tailored tutoring to ensure students meet their academic aspirations. St Paul's Girls' School is not just about achieving top grades; it’s about cultivating confident, capable young women ready to make their mark on the world.
St Paul’s School, located in the heart of London, is steeped in nearly 500 years of history, blending tradition with contemporary educational practises. Renowned for its academic excellence, the school boasts impressive A-level results, with 98% of students achieving A*/B grades. This strong performance is complemented by a diverse array of extracurricular activities, promoting a well-rounded education.
The school is particularly noted for its rich cultural heritage, which informs its approach to learning. With a curriculum that encourages critical thinking and creativity, St Paul’s prepares students not just for exams, but for life beyond school. The introduction of girls into the school from 2026 marks a significant shift, aiming to foster a more inclusive environment and reflect modern educational values.
In addition to academics, the school places great emphasis on personal development and leadership skills. Students have access to various clubs and societies, ranging from debating to drama, allowing them to explore their interests and develop their talents. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are not only academically accomplished but also equipped with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of the future.
King’s College School in Wimbledon is renowned for its holistic approach to education, which is evident in its commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. The school excels not only in academics, boasting an impressive 97.4% of A-levels graded A*/B and 98.6% of GCSEs at A*/A/9/8/7, but also in creating a balanced environment where students can thrive in sports, arts, and personal development.
The ethos at King’s College School promotes a culture of respect, curiosity, and resilience, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. With state-of-the-art facilities and a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and various sports, students are encouraged to explore their passions beyond the classroom. This approach not only fosters academic excellence but also cultivates essential life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and creativity.
Moreover, the school places a strong emphasis on character education, helping students develop a sense of responsibility and community involvement. By participating in various outreach programmes and charitable initiatives, pupils learn the importance of giving back and contributing positively to society. This comprehensive educational experience positions King’s College School as a top choice for parents seeking a nurturing environment that prioritises both academic success and personal growth.
Westminster School, nestled in the heart of London, boasts a rich history that dates back to the 12th century. This prestigious institution has long been synonymous with academic excellence, producing notable alumni such as several British Prime Ministers and influential figures in various fields. The school prides itself on a tradition of rigorous scholarship and a commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity among its students.
As of 2025, Westminster School not only continues to uphold its academic standards—evidenced by an impressive 96.8% of A-levels being graded A*/B—but is also embracing change with an eye on the future. With plans to fully integrate girls into all year groups by 2028, the school is taking significant steps towards inclusivity, recognising the importance of diverse perspectives in education.
The curriculum at Westminster is both challenging and inspiring, encouraging pupils to engage deeply with their studies while also exploring extracurricular interests. The school's location adjacent to the Houses of Parliament provides a unique backdrop for students, blending academic pursuits with real-world experiences in politics, history, and culture. This connection not only enhances the learning environment but also enriches students' understanding of civic responsibility.
In addition to its strong academic track record, Westminster School offers a plethora of extracurricular activities, from sports to the arts, nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared to excel in all areas of life. This holistic approach ensures that students leave the school not just with excellent grades, but with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Godolphin and Latymer, located in Hammersmith, is a distinguished all-girls school that has consistently demonstrated excellence in both academic and personal development. With an impressive 96.4% of A-level entries achieving grades A* or B and 97.8% of GCSEs graded A*/A/9/8/7, the school is well-regarded for its rigorous academic programme. The supportive atmosphere nurtures not only scholars but also well-rounded individuals. The school encourages girls to explore various subjects, from the sciences to the arts, ensuring they develop their unique talents. Additionally, Godolphin and Latymer offers an array of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama, which further enrich students' experiences. The commitment to fostering leadership skills and resilience prepares girls to excel beyond their school years, making it a top choice for parents seeking a comprehensive education for their daughters.
There are several other private schools in London that deserve attention due to their strong academic records and diverse offerings.
North London Collegiate School stands out with an impressive 96.9% of A-levels achieving A*/B grades, and 96.3% of GCSEs at A*/A/9/8/7. Known for its rigorous academic environment, it also encourages creativity and personal growth through various extracurricular activities.
City of London School for Girls is another noteworthy option, boasting a 96.6% A-level success rate. The school prides itself on fostering a supportive and inclusive community, helping girls excel not just academically but also socially.
Similarly, Highgate School has a solid reputation, with 95.8% of its A-levels achieving A*/B grades and 94.8% for GCSEs. This school offers a balanced curriculum that integrates arts and sports, ensuring that students develop holistically.
These institutions reflect the high standards of private education in London, providing students with substantial opportunities for both academic success and personal development.
Private schools in London not only focus on academic excellence but also prioritise the holistic development of their students through a diverse range of extracurricular activities. These activities are crucial in nurturing well-rounded individuals, preparing them for future challenges. For instance, schools like St Paul's Girls' School offer extensive arts programmes, sports teams, and leadership opportunities, which encourage students to explore their interests beyond the classroom.
Participation in extracurricular activities fosters essential life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and time management. King's College School, Wimbledon, is renowned for its strong sporting tradition, where students engage in various sports, enhancing their physical health while building camaraderie. Similarly, Westminster School integrates music and drama into its curriculum, allowing students to express their creativity and develop confidence in public performances.
Moreover, these activities create a sense of community within the schools. Events like inter-school competitions, theatre productions, and charity fundraisers encourage collaboration among students and strengthen relationships with peers and staff. Godolphin and Latymer exemplifies this ethos, with numerous clubs and societies that cater to a wide array of interests, from debating to environmental awareness.
In summary, the extracurricular programmes at these prestigious institutions are designed to complement academic learning, promoting personal growth and preparing students for a successful future.
Sports and Athletics: A range of competitive and recreational sports options to enhance physical fitness.
Performing Arts: Opportunities in theatre, music, and dance for artistic expression and creativity.
Academic Clubs: Subject-focused clubs fostering intellectual curiosity and peer collaboration.
Community Service: Engaging in volunteer work to develop social responsibility and empathy.
Leadership Programs: Initiatives that nurture leadership skills through mentorship and project management.
Innovation and STEM: Clubs promoting interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
As students approach their A-levels, the pressure to perform well intensifies, especially with university applications on the horizon. Many private schools in London offer robust support systems, including dedicated university advisors, but sometimes additional help is needed. This is where services like The Degree Gap come into play. With expert tutors who have excelled in their studies, The Degree Gap provides tailored assistance that addresses individual learning needs.
Students might find themselves struggling with specific subjects or the overwhelming process of crafting personal statements. Tutors from The Degree Gap can help break down complex topics, offer insights into exam techniques, and guide students through the nuances of university applications. They can also assist with interview preparation, a crucial step for many competitive courses. This personalised approach helps students not only to achieve their desired A-level grades but also to present themselves as well-rounded candidates in their applications.
Moreover, the transition from A-levels to university is significant, and having the right support can make a world of difference. With a focus on building confidence and instilling effective study habits, organisations like The Degree Gap ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. Whether it's mastering advanced mathematics or understanding the intricacies of literature, the right guidance can illuminate the path to success.
When picking a private school in London, think about the school's reputation, the curriculum they offer, the location, extracurricular activities, and how well they fit your child's needs.
Private schools in London often have smaller class sizes, more resources, and may offer a broader range of subjects and extracurricular activities compared to state schools.
Many private schools in London provide special programmes like enhanced arts education, sports coaching, or international baccalaureate options, which can enrich your child's learning experience.
Entrance exams are quite common in private schools; they help the school assess a child's academic abilities and suitability for their curriculum, and some schools may also conduct interviews.
To understand a school's culture, visit them during open days, speak to current parents and students, and read online reviews to get a sense of what everyday life is like there.
TL;DR This ultimate guide outlines top private schools in London for 2025, focusing on academic performance and extracurricular activities. Highlights include St Paul's Girls' School, known for excellence in academics, and St Paul's School, which is set to welcome girls in 2026. Other notable mentions are King’s College School, Westminster School, and Godolphin and Latymer. It also introduces The Degree Gap, a tutoring service dedicated to supporting students in A-levels and university applications. This resource assists parents in making informed decisions for their children's education.
