How to find a private school in London

How to find a private school in London

Whether you are moving from abroad to London, or you are already in London and your children are to start school soon, finding places in London private schools can be a daunting prospect.

Being able to afford private school fees opens the door to a world of outstanding school choices.

But, there are so many schools to choose from, and so many possible locations, that it can be difficult to know where to get started!

To give you a head start, you will find below the methodology that we use when helping clients find a private school in London for their children.

Step 1 – Define your “strategy”

When it comes to finding the right private school in London, families usually take one of two approaches:

• Start by exploring the best schools in a particular neighbourhood that suits their lifestyle, or

• Identify the top schools first, then search for a home nearby to make daily life as smooth as possible.

If you already live in London, or know where you’ll be based, a natural starting point is to explore the schools closest to your home.

If you’re still flexible on location, we usually recommend narrowing your search to two or three neighbourhoods that feel like a good fit for your family—then looking at the schools within those areas.

Alternatively, you might choose to start with London’s top private schools and plan your home search around them. This can be a great strategy, but do keep in mind that the most sought-after schools are often oversubscribed, and securing a place can be challenging.

The more open you can be—both in terms of location and school options—the better your chances of finding a great fit and avoiding disappointment.

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed about choosing the right neighbourhood, you’re not alone. Our guide to finding the best neighbourhoods for families in London is a great place to start.

Step 2 – Define what a good school is for your child

Before you start your research, first start with defining what a good school is for your child:

• Academic level
• Type of curriculum
• Other pupils
• Class sizes
• Extra-curricular activities
• Anything else that is really important to you and your child

This will impact how you filter the various school options that will be available to you, and help you to narrow down these options efficiently.

Step 3 – Research the best private schools in London

Here are some resources to get you started with your research:

• The ISI reports will give you a mine of information about each private school in London.
• The official league tables are also a very good source information to compare schools with each other.

We recommend that you focus on 3 to 6 schools if you can.

Step 4 – Proceed with your school applications

Applying to private schools in London is a fairly straightforward process once you know the steps. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Start with the school websites
   Each school’s website will have detailed information about the admissions process, including key dates and any application fees. It’s your best starting point for understanding what’s required.

2. Reach out to admissions teams
   Don’t hesitate to contact the admissions team directly—they’re usually very welcoming and happy to answer any questions, from clarifying the application steps to letting you know about current availability.

3. Complete the application forms
   Most schools offer online applications. You’ll need to fill out a form, upload the required documents, and pay an application fee (typically charged per child, per school).

4. Prepare for assessments or interviews
   If the school requires entrance tests or interviews, they’ll be in touch to arrange these after your application is submitted.

Whilst there is no limit to the number of private schools you can apply for, each school will require application fees to be paid – these fees are not refunded if the school cannot offer a place to your child, or if you decide not to take the place.

Step 5 – Confirm your school places

Once your application has been submitted, the school (or schools) will get back to you with a response, this is typically referred to as an “offer.”

• Timing can vary
  There’s no fixed timeline, but you can usually expect to hear back within a few days to a few weeks, depending on the school.

• If no places are currently available
  The school may offer to place your child on a waiting list. We recommend accepting this option, it keeps the door open should a spot become available.

• If you receive an offer
  Congratulations! You’ll need to confirm your acceptance in writing, and the school will request a deposit, usually the equivalent of one term’s fees, to secure your child’s place.

Consult with Simply London

Our schools’ experts can provide personalised guidance on the private school admissions process. Using their knowledge and experience, they can help you select and apply for top-performing private schools and find a new home within the catchment area! Contact us today!

We’ve helped so many people to find and apply for a place at their ideal school in London, find out what some of them have to say about our services here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should we start looking at private schools in London?

It’s never too early to start researching. Many families begin exploring options at least a year in advance—some even earlier, especially for entry into highly competitive schools. Application deadlines can vary widely, so early planning gives you more flexibility and choice.

How many schools should we apply to?

We usually recommend applying to several schools, around 3 to 5 is a good range. This helps you stay flexible, especially given that some top schools are oversubscribed. Having multiple options increases your chances of receiving at least one offer.

Do all private schools require entrance exams or interviews?

Not all, but many do—especially for entry points like Year 3, Year 7, or Year 9. The process may include assessments, interviews, or trial days. Each school will outline its specific process on its website or in its admissions materials.

Can we join a waiting list if a school is full?

Yes most schools will offer a waiting list if they don’t have immediate availability. It’s definitely worth joining, as places can sometimes open up unexpectedly.

Do private schools offer financial aid or scholarships?

Many do. Scholarships are often based on academic, musical, or athletic ability, while bursaries are means-tested and based on financial need. It’s worth reaching out to the admissions office to explore what’s available and how to apply.

Article published 15th July 2025