Kensington, in the heart of London, is one of the most beautiful quarters of the city. This borough is popular with many communities in London, particularly with French expats: it has even earned the nickname of “French village”. This can be explained by the fact that the French Consulate is located on Cromwell Road. Not far from it is the French Institute, offering cultural sessions with its French theatre and library. Kensington locals enjoy the delicious French bakeries and restaurants.
French bilingual schools in Kensington
The borough’s top schools make it popular choice for young families. Some of the best schools in Kensington include the world-renowned Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle. This Lycée offers a bilingual education to both French, British and other international families. It has a primary and secondary school in the borough and welcomes 3,300 pupils from 3 to 18 years old. Apart from the École de South Kensington in South Kensington, the Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle’s 3 other primary schools are in Ealing (École Primaire André Malraux), Fulham (École Primaire Marie d’Orliac) and Clapham (École Primaire de Wix).
If you are living in Kensington, looking for a bilingual education for your child and don’t get a place at the École de South Kensington other French primaries are not too far away. There is also a lovely bilingual nursery in the borough: Les Chatons Nursery School, welcoming children between 6 months and 5 years old.
English private schools in Kensington
Top English schools in this borough include Queens’s Gate school for girls which takes children from 4 to 18 years. Its small classes and excellent teaching ensure that girls flourish, both academically and creatively, with a proportion going to Oxbridge and 5 girls heading to medical school last year. Close to Queen’s Gate is the thriving Glendower Prep for girls aged 4-11 years, excellent both academically and pastorally. For 14-18 years olds, co-educational Mander Portman Woodward offers outstanding GCSE and A level tuition by specialist subject teachers.
State schools in Kensington
For families looking for a state education, some of the best state schools in London are in Kensington. They include Fox Primary on Kensington Place. For secondary schools, Holland Park Academy and Cardinal Vaughan Memorial RC School are both outstanding and get stellar exam results every year. For state school applications, you will need to live in or near the catchment area to qualify for a place.
Life in the borough
It is a great location for families. There are excellent museums, restaurants and shops. Both main roads of the borough, Cromwell Road and Old Brompton Road, host popular shopping areas and eateries. The Natural History Museum, Science Museum and Victoria & Albert Museum are free and close to one another. It offers a great family activity which has the added advantage of being both educational and fun.
