In the UK, a recent league table has revealed the top-performing grammar and comprehensive schools for the year. The rankings were determined by the exam results from summer 2025, with Grammar Queen Elizabeth’s School in Barnet securing the top position among state schools. Additionally, Dame Alice Owen’s School in Potters Bar claimed the number one spot for comprehensive schools in the South East and across the country.
Comprehensive schools, which welcome students of all academic levels and teach them together, contrast with selective state schools like grammars. These schools, both government-funded, adhere to the national curriculum without charging fees to parents.
Noteworthy placements in the rankings included West London Free School as the second-best comprehensive school of the year. London schools dominated the top 20 spots for comprehensives, with 12 state primary schools also ranking high.
In specific categories, Thomas Jones Primary School in London emerged as the top primary school, while Wilson’s School in Wallington was recognized as the best state school for GCSEs. St Paul’s School in London secured the top position among private schools nationwide.
Helen Davies, the editor of The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide, acknowledged the challenges faced in education but highlighted the dedication of teachers in providing innovative learning experiences for students.
The guide also outlined the top state, comprehensive, and private schools in various regions. Notable mentions included The King’s School in Grantham for academic excellence in the East Midlands and St Leonard’s RC School in Durham as the top school of the year for academic achievement in the North East.
The rankings were based on the percentage of top grades achieved in GCSE and A-level exams at each school. Additional regional highlights featured top-performing schools across different categories in regions like the North, North West, East Midlands, West Midlands, East Anglia, South West, South East, London, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland.