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Choosing the right sixth form is one of the most important decisions in a young person’s education journey. With university applications, career pathways, and personal development all at stake, informed decisions are crucial.
The top 10 London schools by A-level results 2025
A-level results provide invaluable insight into sixth form quality. Exceptional results don’t just reflect bright students – they reveal institutions with rigorous academic programmes, experienced teachers, and the infrastructure to support students through this vital stage of education.
To help you and your child make these choices with confidence, we’ve compiled the top ten London schools by A-level results in 2025.
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
- What are A-levels?
- Top ten London schools
- FAQs
- How Simply London can help
What are A-levels?
A-levels (Advanced Level qualifications) are subject-based qualifications that students aged 16–18 in England typically take over two years. They usually choose three or four subjects to study, allowing them to specialise in areas that align with their interests, strengths, and university aspirations.
Exam boards grade A-levels from A* (highest) to E. These results form the primary basis for university admissions in the UK and are widely recognised internationally.
1. King’s Maths School
This specialist sixth form, part of King’s College London, tops the rankings with an exceptional 70.0% A* rate and 92.2% A*-A grades. King’s Math focuses exclusively on mathematics and related subjects. With a highly selective intake and university-style teaching, the school prepares students for the most demanding STEM degrees at top universities.
https://www.kingsmathsschool.com/
2. St Paul’s Girls’ School
St Paul’s Girls’ School achieved an impressive 66.8% A* grades and 88.7% A*-A results. This independent day school in Hammersmith combines a long-standing reputation for academic excellence with outstanding music, arts, and sports provision. The school’s supportive environment encourages intellectual curiosity and produces well-rounded graduates who progress to top universities.
3. Imperial College London Mathematics School
Imperial College London Mathematics School achieved the highest A*-A percentage at 93.5%. This state-funded specialist sixth form, located in Barnet, offers a rigorous mathematics-focused curriculum with strong links to Imperial College. Students benefit from university-level teaching and research opportunities in mathematics and related subjects.
https://www.imperialmathsschool.ac.uk/
4. St Paul’s School
St Paul’s School ranks fourth with 57.0% A* grades and 91.0% A*-A results. This prestigious independent boys’ school in Barnes combines academic excellence with enriching co-curricular opportunities. Known for its strong Oxbridge pipeline and notable former alumni, the school fosters independent thinking and intellectual ambition across all subject areas.
5. Westminster School
Westminster School achieved 55.0% A* grades and 87.0% A*-A results, placing it fifth overall. Located in the shadow of Westminster Abbey, this prestigious independent boys’ school (co-educational in sixth form) offers a liberal academic environment with a focus on humanities and sciences. The school’s iconic central London location and close university ties enhance the sixth form experience.
6. North London Collegiate School
North London Collegiate School secured sixth place with 52.5% A* grades and 84.6% A*-A results. This independent girls’ day school in Edgware has a hard-earned reputation for academic achievement alongside strong pastoral care. Its ambitious curriculum and supportive community help prepare students for the next step on their journey – whether full-time employment or university.
7. Queen Elizabeth’s School
Queen Elizabeth’s School is the highest-performing state school in the ranking with 51.0% A* grades and 85.0% A*-A results – proving that state education can compete with the best independent schools. This selective boys’ grammar school in Barnet offers an academically rigorous environment with excellent university preparation.
8. King’s College School, Wimbledon
King’s College School, Wimbledon, ranks eighth with 47.7% A* grades and 84.7% A*-A results. This independent boys’ school (co-educational in sixth form) combines table-topping exam results with outstanding sport and music programmes. Its leafy Wimbledon location and strong sense of community foster an environment where students excel academically and thrive personally.
9. Godolphin & Latymer School
Godolphin & Latymer School, Hammersmith, achieved 45.9% A* grades and 82.9% A*-A results, placing it ninth. This independent girls’ day school coalesces academic rigour with a warm, supportive atmosphere to form an inviting educational environment that produces graduates who excel at top universities.
10. Wimbledon High School
Wimbledon High School props up the top ten with 43.0% A* grades and 80.0% A*-A results. This independent girls’ day school, part of the Girls’ Day School Trust, delivers excellent teaching across a broad curriculum. This strong academic performance is supported by the school’s focus on developing confident, articulate young women.
FAQs
> What should I consider when choosing an A-level school?
While strong exam results are important, they shouldn’t be your only consideration. Look for excellent teaching, appropriate subject choice, robust university guidance, and a supportive environment. Also consider the school’s culture, pastoral care, and enrichment opportunities. Visit prospective schools and speak to current students and teachers.
> What’s the difference between independent and state sixth forms?
Independent schools charge fees and typically offer smaller classes and more extensive facilities. State school sixth forms are free and can deliver comparable results, as Queen Elizabeth’s School in Barnet proves. The main differences lie in resources and class sizes rather than teaching quality.
> How important are A-level grades for university admissions?
A-level grades dictate the success of UK university admissions. Top universities typically require A*-A grades, with competitive courses often demanding multiple A* grades. Strong predicted grades secure conditional offers. Universities also consider personal statements, references, and occasionally admissions tests or interviews.
> When should my child start preparing for A-levels?
Students should begin thinking about A-levels in year 10 when they start studying for their GCSEs. School sixth forms typically hold open evenings in the autumn and spring terms, and students typically submit applications in January or February. Early preparation allows time to research subjects, visit schools, and ensure choices match university and career aspirations.
Sources
- Simply London: The top London schools by GCSE results in 2025
- Simply London: The benefits of private schools compared to state schools
- London Pre-Prep: A-Level Results 2025: London’s top 100 schools
- Gov.UK: A Level
Consult with Simply London
Choosing the right sixth form in London for your child will shape their university pathways and steer their future career options. But don’t just rely on the league tables. Yes, strong A-level results matter, but so do teaching quality, subject availability, and the overall sixth form culture. It’s about finding the right fit for your child’s academic ambitions and personal development.
Our Schools Experts understand London’s state and private school sixth form options and can help you navigate this important transition. We’re here to help you and your child choose and apply for schools that will set them up for university success and beyond.
Contact us today, or schedule a free call with us here to discuss how we can help you secure places in the best shools in London.
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