 1.png)
Schools in London: Expert webinar & resources
Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions for families relocating to London. With thousands of state, private, international and faith schools across the capital, understanding the options available can feel overwhelming.
This webinar recording explains how the London school system works, the differences between state and private education, application processes, fees, and how to assess school quality.
Whether you are planning your move or have already arrived in London, this resource will help you understand your options and make informed decisions for your children.
Watch the webinar recording
Access the full webinar recording at your convenience and catch up on all the key insights and expert guidance shared during the event.
Download the webinar slides
We’ve made the presentation slides available for you to download, so you can refer back to the information and resources discussed during the webinar.
Key Topics Covered
Understanding the London School System
The webinar explains the main differences between state and private education in England, including funding, curriculum requirements, admissions processes and eligibility criteria.
Types of Schools in London
London offers a wide range of educational options, including:
- State schools
- Independent (private) schools
- International schools
- Boarding schools
- Single-sex schools
- Co-educational schools
Each option has its own advantages depending on your family’s circumstances and educational priorities.
Religious Schools
Faith schools are a significant part of the London education landscape.
The webinar explores:
- Church of England schools
- Catholic schools
- Jewish schools
- Muslim schools
- Hindu schools
- Sikh schools
and explains how admissions criteria can differ from non-faith schools.
State vs Private Schools
Families often ask whether private schools are “better” than state schools.
The webinar discusses:
Benefits of private schools
- Smaller class sizes
- Individual support
- Excellent facilities
- International student populations
- Ability to apply before moving to the UK
Benefits of state schools
- Free education
- National curriculum
- Diverse communities
- Guaranteed access to education
- SEN support provision
The right choice depends on each family’s priorities and circumstances.
School Fees
The webinar provides guidance on typical costs:
- State schools: free
- Private day schools: approximately £18,000–£28,000 per year
- International schools: approximately £25,000–£35,000 per year
- Boarding schools: approximately £35,000–£50,000+ per year
Fees vary significantly depending on location, reputation and facilities.
School Applications
Learn how applications differ between:
- State schools
- Private schools
- International schools
The webinar explains:
- Borough admissions
- Proof of address requirements
- Applying from overseas
- In-year applications
- School availability after relocation
School Inspection Reports
Understanding inspection reports is an important part of evaluating schools.
The webinar explains:
- Ofsted reports for state schools
- ISI reports for private schools
- Inspection ratings
- Areas for improvement
- How to interpret findings when comparing schools
Frequently asked questions about Schools in London
> Can I apply for a state school before moving to London?
In most cases, no. State school applications generally require a permanent UK address before an application can be processed.
> Are London state schools good?
Many London state schools achieve excellent academic results and inspection ratings. Some are among the highest-performing schools in the UK.
> What is the average cost of private school in London?
Most London private day schools charge between £18,000 and £28,000 per year, although fees can be higher at some schools.
> What are in-year applications?
An in-year application is made after the normal admissions cycle, typically when a family relocates during the school year.
> How do I compare schools in London?
We recommend considering:
- Academic performance
- Inspection reports
- School ethos
- Location
- Travel times
- Facilities
- Availability of places
Inspection reports should be only one part of the decision-making process.
Related resources
- The Simply London Schools Hub: a large collection of blog articles classified by topic
- State Schools in London Expert Guide & Webinar Recording
- Relocating to London Expert Guide & Webinar Recording
- School Search Services
Contact Simply London
Every family has different priorities, and identifying the right school often requires more than comparing league tables and inspection reports.
Simply London has helped more than 700 international families navigate the London education system and find suitable schools for their children.
Contact us here to discuss your family’s schooling requirements and relocation plans.