The Best Secondary Schools in the UK: How to Choose for Your Child

Choosing the right secondary school is a pivotal decision. It shapes childrens’ academic and professional prospects as well as their social and personal development. So it’s no wonder parents want to make the right choice.

The good news is the UK offers fantastic secondary options, from state-funded schools to selective grammars and prestigious private institutions. 

To help your decision, here’s your comprehensive guide to the best secondary schools in the UK. We’ll explore the top secondary schools across various categories, examining their strengths and offering practical advice on choosing the right school.

In this article:

Which school is the best in the UK?

The UK’s secondary schools are renowned for their academic excellence, diverse curriculums and enrichment opportunities. You’ll find state comprehensives (open to all, free of charge), grammar schools (with admission based on academic performance), and fee-paying private schools offering specialised facilities and small class sizes. But which is best?

Well, each type of school has unique advantages, making the decision highly personal. This means the “best” school in the UK depends on what you’re looking for.

So let’s break it down.

What’s the best comprehensive school in the UK?

St Andrew’s Roman Catholic School in Leatherhead, Surrey was named in the Sunday Times, Parent Power List 2024 as the best comprehensive school in the UK. 

With a motto “to live, to learn, to love in the light of Christ”, this Christian secondary school offers a dynamic yet supportive learning environment. They have “high expectations and great ambitions” for every student and encourage their young people to be the best they can be. Exam results are correspondingly high, with an impressive 99.5% of A Level results at A*-C.

If you’re searching for state schools in the capital, here are the ten best state secondary schools in London.

What’s the best grammar school in the UK?

The Sunday Times’ Parent Power Rankings crowned Wilson’s School in Sutton, South London, as the top grammar school in the UK. 

Wilson’s School is known for academic excellence, with 94.9% of GCSE students scoring grades 9-7 in 2023, and 96.8% of A Level students achieving A*-B grades. But it’s not just about the grades. Wilson’s focuses on nurturing talent and instilling values like resilience, kindness and integrity. 

The school is incredibly inclusive, welcoming boys from diverse backgrounds, with over 40 languages spoken. 

Looking for the best grammar schools? Don’t miss our top ten lists for London and the whole UK, as well as grammar schools without a catchment area.

Which school has the highest GCSE results?

As ranked by the Top School Guide, North London Collegiate School comes out on top for GCSE results. In 2023, an amazing 99% of GCSE entries were grades 7-9.

But of course, North London Collegiate School isn’t just about stellar exam results. Founded in 1850 by Frances Mary Buss, it’s one of the oldest girls’ schools in the UK. The school offers a rich history combined with a modern approach to education, fostering independence, creativity and a love of learning.

What school has the best A Level results in the UK?

When it comes to A Level results, Cardiff Sixth Form College takes the crown. As reported by the Top School Guide, 94.85% of recent A Level entries were A or A* grades.

Cardiff Sixth Form College (established in 2004), focuses specifically on A Level grades for top universities. Unlike traditional boarding schools, Cardiff prides itself on a forward-looking and innovative culture. The college offers state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, extensive libraries and dedicated study spaces, all designed to create an optimal learning environment. 

What is the number one private school in the UK?

When considering private schools in the UK, it’s important to differentiate between day schools and boarding schools. 

Day schools send students home each evening, while boarding schools provide accommodations for students to stay overnight. 

Here are the top private schools in the UK for both categories.

What’s the best day-private school in the UK?

St Paul’s Girls’ School (Hammersmith, London) is the top day-private school in the UK. Founded in 1904, it’s relatively new compared to other prestigious schools but has quickly gained a reputation for academic excellence and creativity.

With fees just under £30,000 a year, St Paul’s is exclusive. It’s also topped the Sunday Times league table ten times in the past eleven years. The school is known for its fun, energetic atmosphere and creative, liberal teaching approach. There are few traditional rules, and students don’t wear uniforms. 

Despite a focus beyond exams, St Paul’s boasts impressive results. Last year, 80% of GCSE entries gained Grade 9. At A Level, 87% achieved A*s or As.

Looking for more options? Here are our guides to the best private schools in London and the UK.

What’s the best boarding school in the UK?

Eton College (Windsor), is synonymous with British private education. It’s the most prestigious boarding school in the UK and perhaps the world.

Known for its rich history and illustrious alumni, Eton has educated twenty UK prime ministers, including recent politicians like Boris Johnson and David Cameron, as well as renowned intellectuals like George Orwell and royalty such as Prince William.

Eton offers a full boarding experience with a blend of tradition and progressive education. The curriculum emphasises independent thinking, public speaking and debate. Students enjoy state-of-the-art facilities, including theatres, sports complexes and extensive grounds, making Eton a top choice for families seeking a prestigious and well-rounded education.

For a detailed exploration of top boarding schools in the UK, head to our comprehensive guide.

Which city in the UK has the best schools?

When it comes to top-tier education in the UK, London often takes the crown with its abundance of high-performing schools. However, other cities like Oxford, Manchester, Bristol and Birmingham also offer a fantastic education combined with vibrant city life. 

Each city has its unique strengths and standout schools, so the best choice depends on what you’re looking for.

Of course, if you’re looking for the highest concentration of the best secondary schools in the UK, London and the surrounding areas are hard to beat. Here, you’ll find prestigious private schools like Westminster School, Harrow School, St Paul’s School and Eton College. For those considering state schools, London also offers top options like The Henrietta Barnett School, Queen Elizabeth’s School and Tiffin School.

Is it better to go to a private school in the UK?

Choosing between private and state schools in the UK depends on what works best for your family and your child’s needs. Private schools often offer smaller class sizes, personalised attention and top-notch facilities, but they also come with hefty fees. 

Here are some key points to consider.

How to choose a secondary school

  • Academic performance: Check out league tables and Ofsted reports to see how schools stack up academically. Private schools usually have impressive GCSE, AS and A Level results and high university entrance rates, but don’t overlook grammar schools and some outstanding state schools.
  • Facilities and extracurricular opportunities: Private schools often have extensive programs in sports, science, music and drama due to their resources. However, many state schools also have “specialist status” and offer fantastic extracurricular activities.
  • Teaching quality: Great teachers can be found in both private and state schools. Private schools might have more funds for teacher development, but many state schools have dedicated and passionate teachers providing high-quality education.
  • Location: Consider how far the school is from home. Commute times can affect your child’s day-to-day life. For boarding schools, think about how easy it is for your child to travel home during holidays and weekends. Both private and state schools are found in lively urban areas or peaceful rural settings.
  • Financial considerations: Private schools can be expensive, with fees ranging from £15,000 to over £40,000 per year, plus extra for uniforms and trips. If cost is an issue, look into scholarships and bursaries. State schools, on the other hand, are funded by the government and are free to attend.
  • School culture: Visiting schools can give you a good feel for their atmosphere. Talk to current students, teachers, and parents to understand the school’s community and values. Make sure the school environment matches what you want for your child.

Are UK schools better than the USA?

Comparing UK and USA schools is tricky, as the two systems have different strengths. The UK system might appeal more to those who prefer a focused approach with a clear path to university. On the other hand, the US system might be better suited for students seeking a broader education with more extracurricular opportunities.

Here are a few factors to consider:

  • Curriculum depth vs. breadth: UK schools tend to specialise early, letting students focus on just a few subjects. In contrast, the US system typically emphasises a broader education, with students studying a wider range of subjects.
  • Exam systems: The UK’s exam-based system (GCSEs, AS Levels and A Levels) contrasts with the US’s continuous assessment and GPA system. This can influence teaching styles and student experiences.
  • University preparation: UK schools often focus on preparing students for university, particularly through the A Level system. In contrast, the US system, with its Advanced Placement (AP) courses and SAT/ACT exams, offers flexibility but may not achieve the same depth.
  • Extracurricular activities: US schools generally offer a broader range of extracurricular activities, integrating them into the school culture. While UK schools also provide extracurricular opportunities, these are sometimes less formalised and often outside of school.
  • Cultural context: The cultural environment differs significantly, with US schools often emphasising sports and a broader school community spirit, whereas UK schools may place a stronger emphasis on academics and traditional values.

Are you choosing a secondary school for your child?

Whether you’re considering a top-performing state comprehensive, selective grammar, or a prestigious private institution, there are many excellent UK secondary schools. 

For help selecting the right school for your child or preparing them for entrance exams, contact our expert team at Achieve Learning. With a proven track record of securing places at the country’s most prestigious schools, we’ll get your child’s education off to the best possible start.