The Best Secondary Schools in Harrow: A Parent’s Guide

Discovering the ideal secondary school in Harrow isn’t just about exams and education. It’s about encouraging a lifelong love of learning, intellectual curiosity and opportunity.

Nestled in northwest London, Harrow is renowned for its picturesque surroundings, thriving community spirit, and abundance of cultural amenities. It’s perhaps no surprise then, that Harrow also boasts some of the best secondary schools in the country.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find a complete list of secondary schools in Harrow, both state-funded and private. We’ll discuss the reputation and rankings of Harrow’s leading schools, so you can make secondary choices with confidence. 

We’ll also dedicate a section to the prestigious Harrow School, globally renowned for its illustrious history and academic excellence.

How many secondary schools are there in Harrow?

There are over 24 secondary schools in Harrow, both state-funded and private. From the prestigious and historic Harrow School (attended by Winston Churchill, Stanley Baldwin and Lord Byron) to leading state secondaries like Avanti House and Bentley Wood High School, parents are truly spoiled for choice. 

But how to decide? First off, it’s important to understand exactly what’s available for your child.

Here’s your complete list of secondary schools in Harrow.

State secondary schools in Harrow

Private secondary schools in Harrow

We should also mention The Red Balloon Centre, based at Kenton Road in Harrow. Red Balloon Learning Centres offer an innovative mix of online and in-person learning for students missing from school because of bullying, anxiety or trauma. 

Although the centre covers core national curriculum subjects, they’re not a “school” in the strictest sense. Instead, they describe themselves as a “warm and welcoming educational community” offering qualifications, specialised therapy and extracurricular activities.

What are the best Grammar Schools in Harrow?

Despite its many fantastic secondaries (including the esteemed Harrow School), there’s a notable absence of Grammar Schools in Harrow.

However, for parents seeking top-tier educational opportunities for their children (without the hefty fees!), neighbouring Barnet boasts two of the nation’s best Grammar Schools: Queen Elizabeth’s Boys Grammar School and Henrietta Barnett Grammar School for Girls.

Beyond these two schools, St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School in Barnet shines as another exceptional choice. Embracing a Roman Catholic ethos, St Michael’s offers priority admission to Catholic students while also welcoming students from diverse faith backgrounds or none at all.

For more information about Grammar Schools near Harrow, including Latymer School in Edmonton and Slough Consortium Grammar Schools, read our in-depth guide to state-funded Grammar Schools near Harrow.

We’ve also compiled a complete list of Grammar Schools without a catchment area as well as the best Grammars in London.

What are the best secondary schools in Harrow?

With so many secondary schools in Harrow, how can parents narrow down their choices?

When it comes to the “best” secondary schools, the most prestigious and competitive institutions are Harrow’s independent schools. Of course what’s best for each child (and family) will depend on various factors including finances, academic aptitude, extracurricular interests, school facilities, ethos and individual preferences.

However, based on academic results, reputation and recognition, the three top secondary schools in Harrow are:

Harrow School

We’ll devote a section to Harrow School below, but suffice to say, this is one of the most prestigious schools not just in London, but the entire country.

Founded in 1572 under a Royal Charter granted by Queen Elizabeth I, Harrow has a rich history and tradition of academic excellence, leadership development and character education. 

The school’s iconic campus, with its distinctive Old Schools building and historic architecture, provides a picturesque backdrop for a rigorous educational experience.

Harrow School’s latest exam results >

John Lyon School

Founded in 1876, John Lyon School combines a strong academic focus with a supportive community ethos, providing students with a well-rounded education and ample opportunities for personal growth.

Describing themselves as “North West London’s leading co-educational independent school”, the school proudly states that “academic excellence” is at the very heart of what it seeks to achieve. 

With a broad curriculum as well as excellent sports and creative arts opportunities, students work alongside dedicated and enthused teachers to develop their “learning skills, creativity and the ability to fully apply themselves in all areas of life.”

John Lyon School’s latest exam results >

North London Collegiate School

Founded in 1859, North London Collegiate School is one of the best independent day schools for girls in the country.

It provides an “ambitious education” with a carefully judged balance of academic challenge and pastoral support. The school boasts “glorious facilities” and “extensive extracurricular activities” in a friendly and fun atmosphere.

Indeed, the school’s founder (Frances Mary Buss) had the vision of producing “independently minded young women” with the confidence to go out and make a difference in the world. Today, this vision remains true and the school has an excellent track record of securing places at the best universities. 

Passionate teachers go above and beyond exam success, inspiring curiosity and a love of learning that stays with girls for the rest of their lives. 

North London Collegiate School’s latest exam results >

Looking for more fantastic private schools? Don’t miss our guides to the best private schools in London and the best private schools in the UK.

What are the best state secondary schools in Harrow?

Harrow is home to many great state secondary schools. Among these, Avanti House High School, Bentley Wood High School, Sacred Heart Language College and Salvatorian Roman Catholic College regularly top rankings for the borough.

The government’s Compare School Performance Service ranks secondary schools based on various criteria, including “Progress 8 Scores”, GCSE grades and the number of pupils going onto full-time education or entering employment.

Progress 8 Score

A Progress 8 score shows how much academic progress pupils make at secondary school between Key State 2 and Key Stage 4. It’s based on results in various subjects, including English, Maths, Science, History, Geography and Languages.

A score above zero means that students have made more progress than average. 

In excellent news, all of the top five Harrow Schools are rated “well above average”.

  • Whitmore High School: 1.06
  • Bentley Wood High School: 1.05
  • Sacred Heart Language College: 1.04
  • Avanti House High School: 0.93
  • Salvatorian Roman Catholic College: 0.62

GCSE Grades

The top five Harrow schools ranked by the percentage of students who achieved a Grade 5 or above in both English Language and Maths GCSEs.

  • Avanti House High School: 80%
  • Pinner High School: 75%
  • Sacred Heart Language College: 75%
  • Salvatorian Roman Catholic College: 71%
  • Nower Hill High School: 69%

Further Education

The percentage of pupils staying in full-time education or directly entering employment.

  • Avanti House High School: 98%
  • Nower Hill High School: 98%
  • Bentley Wood High School: 97%
  • Park High School: 96%
  • Rooks Heath School: 96%

These are just a few examples of Harrow state secondaries that are highly regarded for their academic standards, extracurricular offerings and supportive learning environments. Families should visit as many schools as possible to determine the best fit for their child.

Harrow School: A Brief Introduction

When it comes to secondary schools in Harrow, no guide would be complete without Harrow School. 

Harrow School is one of the country’s most prestigious independent boarding schools. Renowned for its prestigious reputation and centuries-old tradition of academic excellence, Harrow School has educated many of the country’s finest minds and political leaders.

Notable alumni include Priministers Winston Churchill and Stanley Baldwin, the actor Benedict Cumberbatch, the poet Lord George Gordon Byron and NASA astronaut Nicholas Patrick.

Harrow School: Reputation and Rankings

Why is Harrow School so famous?

Harrow School’s fame can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, its long and illustrious history dating back over four centuries has established it as an iconic institution in British education. 

Ever since its founding in 1572, Harrow’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership development and character education has produced generations of accomplished alumni who’ve made significant contributions to society. 

The school’s traditions, such as the iconic straw boater hats and distinctive boarding house system, further contribute to its unique identity and global recognition.

Is Harrow better than Eton?

Harrow School and Eton College are two of the leading boarding schools in the country. They’re both renowned for excellent academic standards and high social status. As you’d expect, both schools offer astounding facilities and fantastic extracurricular opportunities.

It’s hard to objectively say which school is better, as both schools have withdrawn from national league tables. They’ve declined to publish detailed GCSE and A Level results, making comparison difficult.

Discussing their decision to withdraw from league tables, Harrow states that examination results, in the context of a lifetime “do not determine success”. Instead, they wish to take the “long view” with their boys’ ambitions.

In terms of history and prestige, however, Eton might just pip Harrow. Eton College was founded in 1440 (130 years before Harrow School). It also boasts a record number of British Prime Ministers and an astoundingly influential alumni network. Indeed, no fewer than 20 Prime Ministers were schooled at Eton.

Harrow School: Admissions

Can anyone go to Harrow School?

Harrow School operates as an independent school and admits students based on a competitive admissions process. While the school welcomes applications from students of diverse backgrounds and nationalities, admission is selective and based on academic ability, character assessment and potential to contribute to the school community. 

Prospective students must demonstrate academic aptitude, personal qualities (such as leadership potential) and extracurricular achievements. They’ll also undergo an interview and assessment process.

Visit the Harrow School admissions pages for more information.

Is Harrow School hard to get into?

Harrow School’s admissions process is highly competitive, reflecting its reputation as a leading independent school. 

With a limited number of places available each year (admitting just 160 boys into Year 9 and up to 20 boys into sixth form) and a large number of applicants – gaining admission to Harrow requires strong academic performance, exemplary character and the ability to demonstrate potential for success within the school’s boarding environment. 

If you’re contemplating entrance, it’s best to book an open morning and get in touch with Harrow’s dedicated admissions team.

Harrow School: Fees and funding

Is Harrow School expensive?

As an independent boarding school with a prestigious reputation and extensive facilities, Harrow School’s tuition fees are among the highest in the UK. 

Tuition fees are just over £40,000 a year (or £16,850 a term). 

In addition to tuition fees, which cover academic instruction, boarding, laundry and meals, there may be additional costs for extracurricular activities, textbooks and personal expenses. 

While Harrow’s fees may be high, the school offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support talented students from diverse backgrounds.

Is Harrow School worth it?

So, is Harrow School really worth it?

Ultimately, this will come down to your circumstances, and how much you value the social prestige that a Harrow School education brings. 

It certainly provides an unparalleled educational experience, not just in terms of exam results, but amazing extracurricular activities and a strong sense of community. The school’s distinguished history, esteemed reputation and extensive alumni network can provide valuable opportunities for career progression far beyond graduation. 

However, families should carefully consider the significant financial investment and weigh the benefits of attending Harrow against other educational options to assess if it aligns with your values and aspirations for your child. 

Are you considering secondary school options in Harrow?

If you’re currently researching secondary schools in Harrow for your child, get in touch with our expert team at Achieve Learning.  We offer bespoke 11 Plus tuition (from both Year 4 and Year 5), realistic mock exams and academic consultancy.

With a proven track record of securing entrance to the country’s most prestigious secondary schools (both state-funded and independent), we’ll help your child achieve their academic goals.

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