 1.png)
Primary school years (typically ages 5 to 11 in the UK) are hugely important in your child’s development. If you’re relocating to London, you’ll be pleased to hear that the UK capital is a hotbed for these educational institutions: according to the 2025 Sunday Times Parent Power Guide, it’s home to four of the country’s top 10 – nearly a 50 per cent ratio. That’s even more impressive when you consider there are 16,764 state-funded primary schools in England.
The best primary schools in London
To help prevent your school search from becoming a fraught and stressful challenge, we’ve researched these table toppers for you. If you have your sights on a private education for your child, we’ve also explored some of London’s best fee-paying primary schools on your behalf – like their state contemporaries, there are plenty of top performers to choose from.
If your family is relocating to the UK from overseas, you might also want to explore this guide to family immigration on our sister site. It covers the essentials of bringing your family to the UK.
What you’ll learn in this quick guide
- Top state-funded primary schools in London
- Top private primary schools in London
- FAQs
The best state primary schools in London
1. Hampden Gurney CofE Primary School – Marylebone
This sought-after primary school in Marylebone is rooted in a Christian ethos, blending strong academic achievement with personal, social and spiritual development. The school’s first-class facilities set it apart, including dedicated specialist teaching for music and art, outdoor play and exploration areas for early years, and spaces to support after-school clubs in drama, coding, chess, and sports.
In 2024, 100% of pupils achieved the expected standard in reading, writing and maths at Key Stage 2. These strong academic results, along with excellent pupil well-being, helped it earn the prestigious title of Sunday Times Primary School of the Year 2025.
2. St Stephen’s Primary School – East Ham
St Stephen’s in east London is a vibrant state-funded community school known for its strong academic performance, with children supported to achieve their full potential. This, combined with its nurturing environment that celebrates diversity and fosters respect, saw it placed third in the Sunday Times list.
The school also offers a Nursery and Children’s Centre (ages 2-4), which follows the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum. This emphasises outdoor learning (including a garden), sensory play, and supports a smooth transition into Reception.
3. St Andrew’s Roman Catholic Primary School – Streatham
St Andrew’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Streatham – ranked fourth in the Sunday Times table – is a welcoming, state-funded institution that’s built on Christian values. A nurturing environment where every child is encouraged to flourish academically, socially, and spiritually is complemented by a strong focus on excellence in teaching and learning.
School staff work in partnership with parents to support each child’s unique journey and inspire curiosity, creativity, and resilience. Enriched by a broad curriculum and a diverse range of extracurricular opportunities, the school equips pupils with the skills and confidence to thrive, while fostering respect and a love of learning.
4. Judith Kerr Primary School – Southwark
Placed fifth by the Sunday Times, Judith Kerr in Southwark is a pioneering bilingual school offering a unique curriculum where English and German are taught in tandem. Established in 2013, the school adopts a “two languages, one community” approach, enabling children to develop fluency naturally through everyday learning and activities.
Lessons are designed to balance the English curriculum with immersive German language experiences, giving children cognitive and cultural advantages. This bilingual foundation nurtures confident, adaptable learners who are well-prepared for secondary school and the wider world.
The best private primary schools in London
1. Glendower Preparator School – South Kensington
Glendower Preparatory School, located in the heart of South Kensington, is one of London’s leading independent girls’ schools. Founded in 1895, it combines tradition with a forward-thinking approach to education, nurturing bright, confident, and compassionate pupils.
Specialist teaching begins from Reception for French, Music, Drama, PE and ICT. In the Prep years, it introduces Mandarin (from Year 4) and Latin (in Year 6) alongside French. Facilities include a dedicated science lab, specialist art room, music suites (including practice rooms), outdoor play space, and well-equipped classrooms.
2. King’s College Junior School – Wimbledon
Set against the leafy backdrop of Wimbledon Common in southwest London, King’s College Junior School is an independent day school for boys aged 7-11. Established as part of the prestigious King’s College School, it provides a strong academic foundation within a supportive and structured environment. The curriculum covers core subjects alongside languages, science, computing, sport, music, and the arts, encouraging a breadth of learning.
Pupils benefit from modern facilities, small class sizes, and close ties with the senior school. Strong pastoral care underpins personal development, while a wide range of co-curricular opportunities promotes confidence and teamwork – a rounded experience that prepares boys for seamless progression to senior education.
3. Thomas’s Battersea
Thomas’s Battersea educates 540 boys and girls aged 4-13. Renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, the school offers a broad and balanced curriculum underpinned by outstanding opportunities in sport, music, drama, and the creative arts.
Its culture is built on a foundation of kindness, respect, and ambition, ensuring every child is supported to achieve their potential while developing resilience, curiosity, and confidence. With exceptional pastoral care and a vibrant community, Thomas’s prepares pupils for the challenges of senior school and beyond, instilling a lifelong love of learning and personal growth.
4. Highgate Junior School
Highgate Junior School, for boys and girls aged 7-11, forms part of Highgate School in the London Borough of Haringey. Opened in 2016, the new 4,288 sqm building incorporates generous classrooms, specialist teaching areas, breakout zones, and energy-efficient features.
The curriculum covers the full Key Stage 2, with particular emphasis on core skills (literacy, numeracy, and scientific enquiry) and intellectual curiosity, problem solving, and reflective learning. Co-curricular opportunities are extensive: sports, music, arts, drama and activity options. Pastoral care is pivotal, helping pupils feel safe, motivated and invested in the culture.
FAQs
> What are the differences between state and private primary schools?
State schools are government-funded and free to attend, with admissions based on catchment areas (proximity to the school). Private (independent) schools charge tuition fees, typically offer smaller class sizes, and may provide broader extracurricular activities.
> How do I apply for a state primary school in London?
Applications are managed through the school’s local borough council. Parents typically apply online, listing preferred schools. Places are offered based on proximity, sibling priority, and occasionally faith-based criteria.
> How can I research and compare London primary schools?
Parents can research Ofsted reports, league tables, and school websites to compare academic performance, ethos, and extracurricular offerings. Attending school open days is also recommended.
> Do I need a residential London address to apply for a primary school? For state primary schools in London, you need a local residential address because admission is based on catchment areas. Councils usually require proof of address, such as a tenancy agreement, utility bill, or council tax statement.
For private primary schools, you don’t need a London address to make an application, meaning families living abroad or outside London can still apply.
Sources
- Simply London – State primary vs. State secondary schools
- Simply London – When to appeal a London state primary school decision
- Simply London – Can you apply for state schools and private schools at the same time?
- Hampden Gurney CofE Primary School
- St Stephen’s Primary School
- St Andrew’s Roman Catholic Primary School
- Judith Kerr Primary School
- Glendower Preparator School
- King’s College Junior School
- Thomas’s Battersea
- Highgate Junior School
Get help from Simply London
Our schools’ experts can provide personalised guidance on the school admissions process. Using their knowledge and experience, they can help you select and apply for top-performing schools. Contact us today!
Need help bringing your family to the UK? Our sister site Simply UK Visa offers expert guidance on family immigration. Because getting settled starts with getting here.
