72 best private schools in London 2024
This content was developed with active participation of Lucy Heller.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://www.theguardian.com/education/2023/aug/20/private-school-england-twice-as-likely-top-a-level-grades
- https://www.businessinsider.com/the-hardest-private-schools-to-get-into-in-the-uk-2016-8.
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In 2023 100% of students achieved A*– B grades at A-levelUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 8from 48037.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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In 2023 – 37.5% of A-level students achieved A* - A.United KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 6from 12300.00 £ / termApply with documents
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In 2021 - 66% of A Level students achieved A*-AUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 9from 12300.00 £ / termApply with documents
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In 2023, in University Foundation Programme 50% of students achieved an A*- AUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 10from 11450.00 £ / termApply with documents
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All students holding Oxbridge places met their offersUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 9from 60995.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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In 2023 - 84% of A Level students achieved A* - AUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 10from 13869.00 £ / termApply with documents
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In 2023 - 21% of A Level students achieved A* gradeUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 7from 46800.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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133 place in the best boarding schools in the UKUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 7from 5245.00 £ / termApply with documents
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Ashbourne students consistently achieve excellent A level results, 53% A*A in 2023, far exUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 10from 10250.00 £ / termApply with documents
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In 2023 - near 38% of A Level students achieved A*-A gradesUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 8from 35170.00 £ / yearApply with documents
Alternative destinations
Education information
Nowadays, studying in best private schools in London is very popular among foreign students. Private schools are distinguished by high rankings, modern equipment, developed internal infrastructure, beautiful campuses, comfortable living conditions. It's worth noting that to study and live in the center is expensive, but in the suburbs of the capital there are a number of options with more economical prices. For example, Cambridge Tutors College in Croydon.
Educational system of Great Britain is a real example of classical European education, which is considered high quality and prestigious in the world. Due to these facts many parents decide on studying of their child in private schools in London. Studying in schools in London is a sure step on the way to university admission in Great Britain and prestigious educational institutions of Europe and other countries. Choice of secondary schools in England is great.
Key Features at Top Private Schools in London, UK
The SMAPSE website categorizes 30 of the best private schools and colleges in London into several types:
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Pre-schools for students aged 4 to 7
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Preparatory schools for students aged 7 to 11
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Specialized institutions for either boys or girls
Private schools in London generally admit students from the ages of 11 or 13 through 18. The final two years of schooling focus on preparing students for university entrance. International colleges start accepting foreign students from the 10th grade of the British program, also known as GCSE.
Unique Features of Elite and International Private Schools in London
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Enhanced English language training at all educational levels
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A broad range of subjects and opportunities for personal development
Moreover, private schools in London are divided into day schools and boarding schools. Both types cater to international students, each with its own set of characteristics. Day schools are often better suited for older international students, who spend only part of their day on campus and live with British host families. Typically, these families reside 30-50 minutes away from the school, and students are responsible for commuting on their own.
In addition to academic success, what details do parents consider when choosing a school?
Location: Most often, parents consider schools in the city center, but in a calm and safe area. The infrastructure and equipment of the classrooms, the teaching staff and the atmosphere in general. In the end, parents must be sure that the child will be comfortable, they will always be supported and helped!
Cost and Fees to Private Schools in London
When it comes to boarding at private schools in London, international students study, reside, and dine on campus. They are generally under staff supervision around the clock, providing peace of mind to parents who are concerned about their child being in a foreign country without them. As a result, many parents prefer London's boarding schools for their children's secondary education.
Popularity of Colleges Among Foreign Students
Colleges in England, specifically those that are part of the British educational system, are also popular among international students. These educational institutions occupy a middle stage in the British educational trajectory. Foreign students, usually around 14-15 years old, can enroll in these colleges as a stepping stone to gaining admission into top-ranking universities in Great Britain.
Document Requirements for Admission to Top Private Schools in London
To gain admission to one of the top 30 private schools in London, applicants must first complete a special form available on the school's website. The next step involves sending the following document package to the school's admissions committee:
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Report cards from the last 2-3 years
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Teacher evaluations, usually from Math and English teachers
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Language test results, ideally scoring at least 4.5 on the IELTS
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A motivational essay outlining the reasons for wanting to attend the school
It's advisable to send these documents at least 8-9 months—or even better, a year—before the intended start date. Many applicants also choose to apply to multiple schools simultaneously to increase their chances of admission.
Private Schools in London Fees: An Overview
Studying in England is often considered costly, but guidance from experts like those at SMAPSE can help you find the most suitable school within your budget. Annual tuition fees for private schools in London typically range from £15,000 to £40,000, inclusive of living expenses. Additional costs to consider include medical insurance, school registration fees, visa fees, and pocket expenses for the student.
How to Choose the Best Private Schools in London
London boasts a wide array of prestigious educational institutions catering to various academic levels. Each institution has unique features tailored to different student needs. In the best private schools in London, international students can achieve native-level English proficiency. A diverse array of subjects is offered, focusing on holistic self-development.
Educational Approach of London's Private Schools
The primary objective of private schools in London is to create an environment that fosters both academic and personal growth. A typical day for students is carefully structured: academic classes occupy the morning, followed by physical activities and arts lessons in the afternoon. Evenings are generally reserved for homework and optional participation in extracurricular activities organized by the school.
International students also have a wealth of options for sports and creative activities, such as swimming, football, volleyball, tennis, rugby, golf, horse riding, theater, music, art, and dance.
Teaching Standards in International Private Schools in London
Classes are usually small and led by qualified, native English-speaking teachers. Teachers regularly upgrade their skills through various professional development courses. The best private schools in London maintain an ideal student-to-teacher ratio, usually capping academic groups at around 15 students. This size is considered optimal for preparing students for successful final exams.
Recommendations for Choosing a Secondary School
When selecting a secondary school in London, parents should consider both the comfort level of their child and the family's financial capabilities. For a more informed decision, it's useful to consult rankings of the best private schools in London, which are compiled annually by various news agencies.
General statistics on education in the UK-ratings, specializations, universities
Top 9 best colleges in London 2024 rankings
1 | Abbey DLD College London |
2 | MPW College London |
3 | Kensington Park School |
4 | CATS College London |
5 | Bellerbys College London |
6 | David Game College London |
7 | Cambridge Tutors College |
8 | Ealing Independent College |
9 | King’s College London |
Top 33 best schools and colleges in and near London 2024
1 | Abbey DLD College London |
2 | Sevenoaks School |
3 | Chelsea Independent College |
4 | ACS Cobham International School |
5 | MPW College London |
6 | Westminster School |
7 | Mill Hill School |
8 | St Pauls School London |
9 | Kensington Park School |
10 | Harrow School |
11 | CATS College London |
12 | David Game College London |
13 | Hurtwood House School |
14 | Brentwood Private School |
15 | Bellerbys College London |
16 | Caterham School |
17 | International Community School |
18 | TASIS the American International School in England |
19 | City of London Freemen’s School |
20 | Dulwich College |
21 | Ashbourne College |
22 | Epsom College |
23 | Royal Russell School |
24 | Rochester Independent College |
25 | Worth School |
26 | Felsted School |
27 | Queenswood private boarding school |
28 | LVS Ascot School |
29 | Eaton Square Private School London |
30 | Cambridge Tutors College |
31 | Marymount International School London |
32 | St Christopher School Letchworth |
33 | King Edward's Witley Private School |
Advantages and disadvantages of English schools
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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The opportunity to enter the best universities in England, USA, Canada, Switzerland, Europe, the world | Expensive |
High quality of education and academic standards | Strong workload |
Perfect English after graduation | The need to change the social environment; it takes time to adapt |
Useful contacts | The difficulty of choosing the most suitable school for the child, requires a qualified specialist |
Top 35 best schools in the USA - 2024 Smapse rankings
1 | North Broward Preparatory School |
2 | Phillips Academy Andover |
3 | The Storm King School New York |
4 | Red Bank Catholic High School |
5 | Windermere Preparatory School |
6 | Shattuck St Mary's School |
7 | Cheshire Academy |
8 | Cate School |
9 | Ross School |
10 | Deerfield Academy |
11 | The Village School |
12 | Amerigo Los Angeles – Bishop Montgomery High School |
13 | Webb Schools |
14 | Kent School USA |
15 | The Winchendon School |
16 | Darlington School |
17 | Marian Catholic High School Amerigo Education |
18 | Grier School |
19 | The MacDuffie School |
20 | CATS Academy Boston |
21 | The Cambridge School of Weston |
22 | Milton Academy |
23 | Amerigo Education Napa Valley |
24 | American Hebrew Academy |
25 | Northfield Mount Hermon School |
26 | Mater Dei Catholic High School San Diego Amerigo Education |
27 | American University Preparatory School Los Angeles |
28 | Webb Schools |
29 | Kent School USA |
30 | Groton School |
31 | Maine Central Institute |
32 | The Lawrenceville School |
33 | Grand River Academy Ohio |
34 | Saint John Paul II Academy |
35 | Chicago North Shore |
Top 14 best schools in Switzerland 2024
1 | College Du Leman |
2 | St. Georges School Montreux |
3 | Institut Monte Rosa |
4 | Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz |
5 | Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée |
6 | Leysin American School |
7 | Hochalpines Institut Ftan AG High Alpine |
8 | Aiglon College Switzerland |
9 | Institut Le Rosey School |
10 | Institut Montana Zugerberg |
11 | Champittet College |
12 | Brillantmont International School |
13 | Surval Montreux |
14 | Ecole Pre Fleuri |
Literature and references
- 10 best private schools in London and where to live nearby
- List of private schools in England — Wiki
- Private co-educational schools in London — Wiki
- Find the best value private schools near you — the Telegraph
- Fees at some of Britain's most prestigious private schools soar above £50,000 a year for the first time
- Private school students in England twice as likely to earn top A-level grades as state pupils — the Guardian
- 15 most expensive private schools in the UK, and the famous names that attended them
- The 15 private schools that are hardest to get into in the UK — Insider