Girls’ schools in London are among the best in the UK, and indeed, the world – offering an outstanding academic education alongside exceptional pastoral support and co-curricular opportunities. Whether you’re already living in the capital or relocating here for work or lifestyle choices, choosing the right school is a vital decision.
Many education experts agree that an all-girls’ environment can provide unique benefits: fewer distractions, more leadership opportunities, and classrooms tailored to girls’ learning styles. However, this will naturally depend on your daughter’s individual temperament, aspirations, and needs.
To help you begin your search, we’ve highlighted five of London’s top-performing and most popular girls’ schools, each with its own character, strengths and ethos.
Central London
City of London School for Girls
Tucked away in a quiet corner opposite the Barbican Centre, the City of London School for Girls offers a dynamic and rigorous academic environment in the heart of the capital. This school is known for its exceptional results, with approximately 30% of pupils progressing to Oxford or Cambridge annually.
CLS for Girls combines academic ambition with a thriving co-curricular life. Students are equally likely to shine on the stage, sports field, or in a music ensemble as they are in a maths or literature seminar. Around 23% of pupils receive financial assistance, reflecting a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. If your daughter is intellectually curious and thrives in a busy, high-achieving environment, this school should be near the top of your list.
Queen’s College, London
An historic school with a modern outlook, Queen’s College has seen a marked rise in academic performance over recent years, with more girls than ever securing places at top-tier universities, including Oxbridge.
Queen’s is known for its nurturing, personalised approach. Small class sizes, warm pastoral care, and an emphasis on each girl’s individual journey create a unique and supportive atmosphere. If you’re looking for a school that blends academic challenge with emotional intelligence and creativity, Queen’s offers a compelling option in central London
North London
South Hampstead High School
A flagship member of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), South Hampstead High School consistently ranks among the top academic schools in the UK. Results are impressive, with girls going on to study at elite institutions including Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Durham, and Bristol.
The school prides itself on a holistic approach to education—developing confident, resilient learners who are equally adept in Music, Art, Drama, and Sport. The teaching is outstanding, with an emphasis on independent thinking, intellectual curiosity, and social responsibility. The school’s inclusive and forward-thinking ethos makes it an ideal choice for well-rounded, ambitious girls.
North London Collegiate School
With a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, North London Collegiate (NLCS) is often considered one of the most intellectually elite schools in the country. It offers a rigorous academic curriculum balanced with an informal and inclusive culture.
Despite its prestigious reputation, NLCS is refreshingly unpretentious. The results speak for themselves: in recent years, up to 45 pupils have received offers from Oxford and Cambridge, with 100% of applicants securing places at Russell Group universities. The school also prepares girls for international success, with a significant number gaining entry to top U.S. Ivy League universities each year. If you’re looking for a school that combines serious academic ambition with a progressive ethos, NLCS stands out.
West London
St Paul’s Girls’ School
Consistently topping league tables, St Paul’s Girls’ School in Hammersmith is a dream destination for many families. Admission is highly competitive, and girls often begin their journey by securing a place at nearby Bute House Prep, which has strong links to St Paul’s.
The school is famous not just for its academic excellence – over 40 girls typically gain Oxbridge offers each year – but also for its liberal, student-led culture. There is no school uniform, and pupils are encouraged to take ownership of their education. With more than 100 clubs and societies, and strength across Music, Sport, and the Arts, St Paul’s nurtures individual passions and fosters a sense of independence and intellectual freedom. It’s an ideal fit for highly academic, self-motivated girls who will thrive in a less traditional environment.
Godolphin and Latymer School (West London)
Nestled in Hammersmith, Godolphin and Latymer has earned a reputation as one of London’s most academically impressive yet warm and approachable girls’ schools. Offering both A Levels and the International Baccalaureate, it produces consistently exceptional results – recent cohorts have averaged 41.6 points in the IB (with multiple perfect scores of 45) and achieved 82% A/A at A Level*. GCSE outcomes are equally strong, with 92% of grades at the top 9–8 level.
Academic ambition sits comfortably alongside a well-rounded ethos, with students excelling in sport, music, drama, and debating. Leavers go on to top universities across the UK, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial, as well as Ivy League and other leading institutions overseas. The school is praised for its warm, inclusive community, strong pastoral care, and the way it empowers girls to aim high, whilst remaining grounded.
Making the right choice
Each of these top girls’ schools in London offers something unique—whether it’s a traditional academic ethos, a creative and liberal atmosphere, or a close-knit, supportive community. When considering what’s right for your daughter, consider not only academic results but also the school’s culture, values, and how well she will feel known and supported.
Visiting schools and speaking to current parents and pupils can provide invaluable insight. From expert advice in choosing the right school to supported applications for the best chance of success, please do contact us.
