Top 10 State Schools in London: 2024 Update

London's state school landscape continues to evolve and excel, with several institutions punching well above their weight in national rankings. As we move through 2024 and look ahead to 2025, the capital's grammar schools and comprehensives are proving that excellence in education doesn't require hefty fees.

With five of our unis officially among the best in the world and a rich educational heritage, London remains a powerhouse for state education. Whether you're considering secondary options for September 2025 or planning ahead for future years, this comprehensive guide explores the top-performing state schools across the capital, based on the latest GCSE, A-level results, and our FindMySchool league tables.

The Grammar School Giants: Barnet's Academic Powerhouses

Leading the charge is Queen Elizabeth's School, Barnet, consistently ranking as one of the UK's top state schools. According to FindMySchool's combined rankings, this boys' grammar school sits at position 5 overall in England, with outstanding performance across all metrics. In 2022, it was named the Sunday Times State School of the Year, and for good reason – in 2023, 97% of GCSEs were awarded grades 9–7.

The competition for places is fierce. This selective admissions process, combined with the school's "unique and unashamed meritocracy in which clever, hard-working boys who like a challenge will thrive" approach, creates an environment where academic excellence flourishes.

What sets Queen Elizabeth's apart isn't just the results – it's the comprehensive approach to education. The school recently opened The Robert Dudley Studio – a 200-seat drama and spoken word facility in 2024, demonstrating commitment to well-rounded development beyond pure academics.

The Henrietta Barnett School: Girls Leading the Way

Not to be outdone, The Henrietta Barnett School in Hampstead stands as the top achiever for both London and the UK overall according to recent analysis. This all-girls grammar school achieved remarkable results with 81 percent A or A*s at A Level and 96 percent of GCSEs achieving between a 7 and a 9.

With its location in leafy Hampstead and a reputation for nurturing academic excellence, Henrietta Barnett has become one of the most sought-after state school places in the country.

Wilson's School: South London's Academic Crown Jewel

In South London, Wilson's School in Wallington has earned its place at the top of multiple league tables. Wilson's School was named best state and grammar school of the year by The Sunday Times Parent Power 2024. This boys' grammar school has a strong focus on real-world experiences to help prepare its male students (aged 11-18) for their post-academic lives.

The school's holistic approach includes regular adventure sporting activities and educational trips abroad, proving that top academic performance doesn't mean sacrificing character development and life experiences.

St Olave's Grammar School: Orpington's Pride

St Olave's Grammar School in Orpington continues to maintain its position among London's elite state schools. This selective boys' school (with a co-educational sixth form) has built a reputation for sending students to top universities, particularly excelling in STEM subjects. The school's consistent appearance in top rankings reflects its unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student development.

The Tiffin Schools: Kingston's Dynamic Duo

Kingston upon Thames boasts not one but two exceptional grammar schools. The Tiffin Girls' School and Tiffin School (boys) both feature prominently in London's top state schools. These schools have mastered the balance between maintaining traditional academic rigour and embracing modern educational approaches.

The Latymer School: Edmonton's Comprehensive Champion

Breaking the grammar school monopoly, The Latymer School in Edmonton proves that selective schools aren't the only route to excellence. As a partially selective school, it offers places to students across the ability range while maintaining exceptional standards. This co-educational school demonstrates that with the right leadership and ethos, comprehensive-style schools can compete with the best.

St Michael's Catholic Grammar School: Faith and Excellence Combined

St Michael's Catholic Grammar School in Finchley showcases how faith schools continue to play a vital role in London's educational landscape. This girls' grammar school (with a mixed sixth form) combines strong Catholic values with academic rigour, consistently achieving outstanding results while maintaining a supportive, nurturing environment.

JFS: Harrow's Comprehensive Success Story

Perhaps most impressively, JFS (formerly the Jews' Free School) in Harrow has been named Comprehensive School of the Year, proving that non-selective state schools can achieve excellence. As a comprehensive school competing with grammar schools in results tables, JFS demonstrates that high expectations and strong leadership can deliver outstanding outcomes regardless of selection policies.

Beyond the Rankings: What Makes These Schools Special

While league tables tell part of the story, these schools share several common characteristics that contribute to their success:

Parents contributing monthly through voluntary donations helps schools provide facilities and opportunities beyond basic state funding. From three separate journalistic outlets at Wilson's to Queen Elizabeth's new drama facilities, students develop skills beyond the classroom.

The Application Reality Check

Before getting too excited about these exceptional schools, it's crucial to understand the competitive reality. Grammar schools require passing the 11+ exam, with thousands competing for limited places. Even meeting minimum standards doesn't guarantee admission – location, sibling policies, and other factors all play a role.

Conclusion: Excellence Across London

London's top state schools prove that exceptional education doesn't require private school fees. From the grammar school powerhouses of North London to comprehensive success stories like JFS, the capital offers numerous pathways to academic excellence.

While Queen Elizabeth's School, Barnet may top our FindMySchool combined rankings, and Henrietta Barnett leads in pure results, each of these schools offers something unique. Whether it's Wilson's focus on character development, the Tiffin schools' balance of tradition and innovation, or JFS's comprehensive excellence, London's state schools continue to set the standard for educational achievement.

For parents navigating school choices, these institutions represent the gold standard of state education. However, use FindMySchool's comprehensive rankings and comparison tools to explore all your options, but don't forget to visit schools, speak to current parents, and consider what environment will best suit your child's individual needs and aspirations.

The competition may be fierce, but for those who secure places at these exceptional schools, the rewards – in terms of education, opportunities, and future prospects – are immeasurable.