UK Education Blog

Top 12 London Private Schools – Best Independent Schools Nearby

Manuela Willbold

Choosing a private school in London is no small feat.

There are around 100 private schools across the city, ranging from world-famous names like Westminster and St Paul’s Girls’ School to specialist day schools and community-focused prep schools.

With such variety, the landscape of London private schools can be overwhelming for parents.

Schools differ not just in size and reputation, but also in their academic priorities, social mix, and approach to supporting pupils outside the classroom.

Some London private schools offer the prestige of centuries-old traditions, while others pride themselves on innovative teaching and a more personalised environment.

What do parents value most when considering the best private schools in London?

Given the sheer choice, it’s no wonder many families seek reliable, impartial guidance to shortlist the best options.

That’s where our UKEB Trust Score comes in.

We’ve carefully reviewed the most reputed London private schools using a transparent, five-factor scoring system.

About the UKEB Trust Score

To create the UKEB Trust Score, we rate each school on five key factors:

Each of our top-rated private schools in London is scored out of 5 and weighted for importance, producing a final score out of 10.

Schools are ranked by region to make shortlisting easier for every family.

How to Read the Data

The figures in each school summary show the most recent exam results—usually from 2024 or 2025—reported by the school. For GCSEs, the percentages refer to students achieving top grades (9–7 or 9–8, equivalent to the old A*/A grades). For A Levels, the key statistics are the proportion of grades at A*-A and A*, which indicate the highest achievement bands. Where available, we also include average scores for the IB Diploma.

Fees are shown per London private school term (not per year), as is standard in the UK independent sector. Most schools have three terms per year, so you’ll need to multiply by three for the annual amount. Fee levels reflect the published rates for 2025–26 and now include VAT where required by law.

Top 3 West London Private Schools

top-west-london-private-schools

1. St Paul’s Girls’ School — UKEB Trust Score: 9.7/10

St Paul’s Girls’ School is consistently at the top of UK league tables, offering an academically rigorous and holistic education for girls in West London. Known for exceptional exam results, its nurturing environment supports high achievement, strong mental health provision, and a track record of top university placements.

2. Westminster School — UKEB Trust Score: 9.2/10

Westminster School is known for its high academic standards and strong track record of successful university placements. Its central London location and centuries-old reputation are matched by a broad co-curricular offering and a commitment to student welfare, producing confident and ambitious graduates.

3. Latymer Upper School — UKEB Trust Score: 8.8/10

Latymer Upper School combines academic excellence with a vibrant co-curricular scene and a strong emphasis on inclusivity. Its consistently high exam results, diverse university destinations, and generous bursary programme have cemented its reputation as one of the best private schools in London for ambitious, well-rounded pupils.

Top 3 East London Private Schools

4. Forest School, Snaresbrook — UKEB Trust Score: 8.0/10

Forest School, set in Epping Forest, provides a well-rounded, co-educational experience known for its academic standards and breadth of opportunity in both sports and the arts. The school is recognised for effective pastoral support and a thriving house system.

5. Blackheath High School (GDST) — UKEB Trust Score: 8.0/10

A top GDST girls’ school, Blackheath High, excels in academic outcomes and creative fields. It offers a supportive, inclusive community and regularly achieves record GCSE and A-Level results, with an emphasis on mental health and pastoral support.

6. Bancroft’s School — UKEB Trust Score: 7.8/10

Bancroft’s is a well‑established co‑educational private day school in Woodford Green (Redbridge). Known for consistently strong exam results, a broad co‑curricular offer, and a pastoral system that emphasises wellbeing, it’s among the best private schools in London for families wanting academic excellence without boarding.

Top 3 South London Private Schools

7. Dulwich College — UKEB Trust Score: 9.4/10

A South London icon, Dulwich College boasts a storied history, state-of-the-art facilities, and consistently excellent academic results. Its blend of traditional values, modern teaching, and a strong pastoral system makes it a top choice for parents seeking both academic and personal development.

8. Alleyn’s School — UKEB Trust Score: 8.8/10

A top co-ed independent in Dulwich, Alleyn’s blends academic rigour, creativity, and inclusivity. Students flourish within a nurturing community, supported by excellent teaching and an extensive enrichment programme.

9. King’s College School, Wimbledon — UKEB Trust Score: 8.5/10

King’s College School, Wimbledon, blends tradition and innovation with a strong house system, excellent exam outcomes, and a broad co-curricular program. The school is particularly strong in science, maths, and music, and is known for high rates of Russell Group and Oxbridge progression.

Top 3 North London Private Schools

10. North London Collegiate School — UKEB Trust Score: 9.7/10

NLCS stands out for its academically ambitious environment, vibrant co-curricular programme, and trailblazing history of educating girls to the very highest levels. Its nurturing, international community and clear pastoral focus help pupils thrive in and out of the classroom.

11. City of London School for Girls — UKEB Trust Score: 9.5/10

An elite girls’ private school in London, CLSG is renowned for top exam performance, musical and STEM strengths, and strong community spirit. Admissions and strong parent communication add to its reputation for all-round excellence.

12. Highgate School — UKEB Trust Score: 9.2/10

A leading co-educational private school in London, Highgate combines a centuries-old tradition with innovative teaching and a supportive culture. Its academic reputation is matched by exceptional arts, sport, and pastoral provision, fostering confident, well-rounded pupils.

We hope this list gives you a great starting point for finding the right private school in London. Our goal is to empower your choice with data, helping you find a school that not only excels academically but also earns your full trust. Explore our full list and find your perfect fit today.

If you have a recommendation to be added to our list, please get in touch!

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