Best Private Schools in London: A Guide to the Capital’s Most Prestigious Education
London is a city built on history, ambition and excellence — and nowhere is that more evident than in its private schools. These institutions shape generations of leaders, creatives, scholars and innovators.
With their academic rigour, world-class facilities, and nurturing environments, London’s best private schools offer an education that is both powerful and personal.
Here’s your definitive, polished guide to the best private schools in London — the ones families across the world compete to join.
Why London’s Private Schools Stand Out
Parents choose these schools for more than just grades. They offer:
Exceptional academic performance
Small class sizes and personalised attention
State-of-the-art facilities
Broad extracurricular programmes
Strong pastoral systems
University preparation with global success rates
In a city buzzing with culture, business and opportunity, these schools sit right at the heart of future success.
The Best Private Schools in London
1. St Paul’s Girls’ School (Hammersmith)
A powerhouse of academic excellence.
This school blends intellectual depth with creativity, music, and a confident, independent environment.
Frequently regarded as one of the top-performing girls’ schools in the UK, St Paul’s Girls’ attracts ambitious students who love challenge and curiosity.
2. St Paul’s School (Barnes)
For boys aged 7–18, this is one of the most respected academic institutions in London.
Known for outstanding exam results, superb facilities and a strong ethos of intellectual freedom, St Paul’s has a long history of shaping scholars, scientists, and leaders.
3. Westminster School (City of Westminster)
One of the oldest and most prestigious private schools in Britain.
Westminster’s location by the Abbey gives it an atmosphere of history and excellence.
Its students consistently achieve top grades and secure places at leading global universities.
4. King’s College School, Wimbledon
A highly regarded school blending tradition with a modern, balanced approach to education.
Consistently ranks among the best for academic performance, while also offering exceptional pastoral care, sport, music and extracurricular opportunities.
5. Godolphin & Latymer (Hammersmith)
One of London’s best independent girls’ schools.
It shines academically but is equally known for nurturing confidence, creativity and intellectual independence.
A favourite for families who want top results and a warm, supportive environment.
6. Highgate School (North London)
A co-educational school that offers both academic strength and a vibrant, well-rounded school life.
With green surroundings, superb facilities and a forward-thinking curriculum, Highgate appeals to families looking for balance.
What Makes These Schools Truly Exceptional
Academic Excellence
London’s best private schools consistently rank at the top for GCSE and A-Level results.
Their teaching is rigorous, their expectations high, and their support systems strong.
Holistic Development
Beyond exams, these schools encourage:
Music
Sport
Drama
Debate
Coding
Community service
Leadership programmes
They shape resilient, articulate, confident young people.
World-Class Facilities
Think theatres, Olympic-sized pools, innovation labs, recording studios, playing fields, and specialised art spaces.
Pathways to Top Universities
A large proportion of students progress to elite institutions in the UK and globally — including Oxbridge, Russell Group universities, and leading US colleges.
How to Choose the Right Private School
The “best” school is the one where your child will thrive. Consider:
Academic environment — competitive or balanced?
School culture — formal, creative, nurturing, traditional?
Location & commute — vital in London traffic.
Single-sex vs co-ed — what suits your child best?
Extracurricular strengths — sport, arts, sciences, languages?
Pastoral care — emotional wellbeing is just as important.
Visiting open days can make all the difference — a campus has its own energy, and children often sense whether it feels like home.
Final Thoughts: London’s Private Schools Shape Futures
Choosing a private school in London is choosing a community, a culture, and a pathway.
These schools are more than academic institutions — they are places where children discover who they are and who they can become.
In a city full of opportunity, London’s best private schools offer a foundation that lasts far beyond classrooms:
confidence, curiosity, resilience, and an education that opens doors around the world.