Are you on the hunt for the best sixth forms in london? Honestly, it can feel like a bit of a maze trying to figure out which places truly stand out. But don’t you worry, because I’ve been doing some digging and I’ve discovered some schools and colleges with really brilliant academic records that I think you’ll want to know about.
It’s quite something when you look at the achievements. For example, I found that Brampton College has been the highest achieving sixth form college in London for the last 20 years, according to the Department for Education! And when I started looking into the details of other top sixth forms in London, the numbers really do tell a story.
King’s Maths School, for instance, saw an amazing 91% of grades at A*-A in 2023, and half of their students got straight A*s. How incredible is that? Then there’s Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Centre (NCS), where a massive 97% of A-Level grades were A*-B. It just goes to show that the sixth form rankings in London feature a mix of fantastic independent schools and truly outstanding state sixth forms in London, all getting brilliant results. I saw that London Academy of Excellence in Stratford achieved 92% of grades at A*-B, and Harris Westminster Sixth Form, which blends state and independent styles, hit 73% of grades at A*-B.
So, I’ve looked into all these amazing places, focusing on their A-Level results, to put together this guide for you. My aim is to help you understand the choices out there and hopefully find the perfect sixth form to help you on your way. It’s a big decision, a bit like choosing from the best universities in London, and I want to make it a little easier for you!
King’s Maths School, Lambeth: A Maths Marvel!
Image Source: King’s Maths School
Right at the top of my list for the best sixth forms in london is King’s Maths School in Lambeth. Honestly, this place is something special! It’s a specialist school that just keeps getting amazing academic results. It’s state-funded and was set up back in 2014 with King’s College London. It didn’t take long for it to become one of the top sixth forms in London if you’re keen on maths and sciences.
King’s Maths School A-Level Results: Simply Outstanding!
When I looked into their A-Level results, I was blown away. King’s Maths School really is at the top of the sixth form rankings in London. I found that in 2023, an incredible 91% of grades were A*-A! And get this – half of all their students walked away with straight A*s. That’s just fantastic, isn’t it? This kind of performance truly cements its place as one of the best state sixth forms in London, especially if you’ve got a knack for numbers.
They keep class sizes small and have specialist teachers who are real experts. This means students get plenty of individual attention, which really helps them shine. Plus, I love that they encourage a collaborative way of learning, helping students get brilliant at problem-solving that goes way beyond just what’s in the textbooks.
King’s Maths School University Destinations: Doors to Top Unis!
With A-Level results like those, it’s no surprise that their students go on to amazing universities. I learned that most graduates get into Russell Group universities, and a good number even head off to Oxford or Cambridge. Lots of students also go on to King’s College London, which makes sense because of the strong link between the school and the university. It’s a bit like having a well-trodden path to one of the best universities in London.
Because the school focuses so much on maths, physics, and computer science, it sets students up perfectly for STEM degrees. I’ve seen that many former students are now off building careers in things like engineering, data science, maths research, and even theoretical physics!
King’s Maths School Specialization: It’s All About the Numbers (and More!)
As you can probably guess from the name, King’s Maths School is all about mathematics and subjects that go hand-in-hand with it. The main subjects are mathematics, further mathematics, physics, and computer science. I did see that some students also take economics.
But it’s not just about the standard A-Levels. They offer really cool extra opportunities like an “Advanced Mathematical Problem Solving” programme and weekly “Mathematical Circles.” These extras help students stretch their thinking way past what exams ask for.
The school also has good connections with industries, and they often have leading mathematicians and scientists come in to give talks. And they have something called the “King’s Factor” enrichment programme, which helps students develop their critical thinking and communication skills – so important for university interviews and whatever career they choose. It’s clear they’re building a strong foundation, much like how understanding your finances helps you learn how to improve your credit score for the future.
Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Centre (NCS): East London’s Academic Star!
Image Source: sixthform.london
Next up, grabbing the second spot in my rundown of the best sixth forms in london, is the Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Centre, or NCS as it’s often known. This place, located in East Ham, is truly brilliant. I found that even though it’s in an area that some might say faces more challenges, NCS has become a real academic powerhouse thanks to its amazing teaching and fresh ideas.
NCS A-Level Results: Seriously Impressive Scores!
The results NCS gets are just remarkable. When I looked at recent exams, an incredible 97% of A-Level grades were A*-B, and a whopping 80% of those were A*-A! Can you believe that? It’s no wonder The Times School League Tables for Parent Power in 2025 ranked NCS as the second-best sixth form in the entire country. And I also saw that their ALPS Grade of 1 means they’re in the top 1% of all UK schools for the progress students make. That’s what I call fantastic.
NCS University Progression: Beating the Best!
When it comes to getting students into top universities, NCS is outstanding. I read that they even have a higher success rate for Oxbridge applications than Eton College! Just last year, the sixth form helped students secure 41 offers for Oxford or Cambridge. On top of that, NCS has helped 11 students win over £4 million in funding to study at top American universities like Harvard, MIT, and Princeton. These scholarships are worth about £350,000 each, covering everything for their four-year courses and accommodation. Imagine getting that kind of support to study at some of the best universities in London or even further afield!
NCS Academic Environment: A Unique Way of Learning
What I think really makes NCS stand out from other top sixth forms in London is how they approach education. They use a classical education model based on something called the “classical trivium” – which focuses on grammar, logic, and rhetoric as the building blocks of learning. It sounds quite different, doesn’t it? This means students get an extra two hours of classes each week on top of their A-Levels, and they even use the Socratic method, which is all about asking questions to help students think critically.
Students usually study four subjects in their first year, and most carry on with three or four in their final year. But it’s not just about exams at NCS. They have a brilliant “Super curriculum” programme that goes way beyond what’s needed for the tests. Thanks to strong partnerships with famous universities, medical professionals, City law firms, and investment banks, students get loads of valuable experiences and knowledge that really set them up for the future. It’s all about creating opportunities, a bit like how learning how to improve your credit score can open doors for your finances.
London Academy of Excellence, Stratford: The ‘Eton of the East End’
Image Source: London Academy of Excellence
Coming in at number three in my list of the best sixth forms in london is the London Academy of Excellence (LAE) in Stratford. I’d heard it called ‘the Eton of the East End’ by the papers, and honestly, it’s a flagship school that’s really doing things differently. It’s been pioneering top-notch education in East London since it opened in 2012.
LAE Stratford A-Level Results: Record-Breaking Success!
LAE Stratford just keeps proving why it’s one of the top sixth forms in london with its amazing exam results. I found that in 2024, the academy had record-breaking results, with 73% of all grades being A*-A and an incredible 96% at A*-B! These kinds of figures put LAE among the top 10 schools of all types – that’s including state, independent, and selective schools – for A-level results. What I think is really special is that the number of LAE students eligible for free school meals is more than five times higher than any other school in that top 10. That’s a massive achievement!
Their consistent brilliance even got them into the World Leading Schools Association because of how committed they are to doing well academically and helping students from less advantaged backgrounds get into higher education.
LAE Stratford Partnerships: Strength in Collaboration
Part of LAE’s success story, from what I can see, is its unique way of working with six well-known independent schools:
- Brighton College
- Caterham School
- Eton College
- Forest School
- Highgate School
- University College School
On top of that, I learned that LAE recently teamed up with a big global law firm called Latham & Watkins. This means students get access to mentoring, training programmes, and workshops run by lawyers and staff from the firm. This is part of LAE’s Pathway to Law programme and gives a real leg-up to students thinking about a career in law. It’s great to see schools creating these kinds of opportunities; it’s almost like giving students a map for their future, a bit like how my London Borough Map helps people navigate the city!
LAE Stratford Curriculum: Rigorous and Rewarding
The curriculum at LAE Stratford is definitely designed to be challenging but in a good way. They offer 16 different A-levels and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). I found that students usually study four subjects in Year 12 and then three in Year 13. And they get a brilliant five hours of lessons every week for each subject. This means their study programme is much more intense than what the government expects for 16 to 19-year-olds.
To get in, prospective students need to show they’re likely to get at least eight GCSEs at grades A*-A (that’s 9-7 in the new system), and they need a grade 7 or above in both Maths and English Language. It shows how focused they are on academics. And it pays off! I saw that in 2024, 25 students got places at Oxford and Cambridge, and 40 students went off to study medicine. That’s just fantastic.
Ashbourne Independent Sixth Form College: A Personal Touch to Success
Image Source: Ashbourne College
Landing in fourth place in my tour of London’s top educational spots is Ashbourne Independent Sixth Form College. This is a well-respected private college that always seems to feature when people talk about the top sixth forms in London. I found out it was founded way back in 1981, and since then, Ashbourne has really made a name for itself as one of the leading independent sixth form colleges in our capital city.
Ashbourne A-Level Results: Consistently Brilliant!
Ashbourne’s exam results really show why it’s considered one of the best sixth forms in London ranking so highly. I discovered that in 2023-2024, their students achieved an impressive 46% A*-A grades. And get this – they’ve kept up an amazing average of 51% A*-A grades over the last ten years! These fantastic results have meant Ashbourne has stayed in the top two for similar private high schools in London for many, many years. Because of this, the college is in the top 5% of UK schools and colleges for “value added,” which means they’re brilliant at helping students improve their grades during their time there.
Ashbourne Teaching Style: Small Classes, Big Impact
Now, what I think really makes Ashbourne stand out in the sixth form rankings London offers is its very different way of teaching. They treat students more like adults, and everyone is on a first-name basis with their teachers. I love that! Classes are usually small, typically with fewer than 10 students. This means everyone gets a lot of individual attention. Every A-level student at Ashbourne gets their own dedicated Personal Tutor right from the start. This tutor is there to give them support with their studies and any pastoral care they might need throughout their time at the college. In fact, I read that they call this personal tutoring system “the lynchpin of our system of individual attention.” That sounds pretty good to me!
Ashbourne University Destinations: Opening Doors to Top Unis
It’s really impressive where Ashbourne students go next. I found that around 63% of those applying for degree courses in the UK get into Russell Group universities. That includes famous names like UCL, King’s College London, Imperial, Warwick, and even Cambridge. This is much higher than the national average. I saw that CIFE colleges, which Ashbourne is part of, send 51% of their students to Russell Group universities – that’s double the average for the rest of the country! The college gives expert help with careers and UCAS applications, guiding students on choosing the right course, writing a perfect personal statement, and practising for interviews. It really helps them get ready for taking the next step to some of the best universities in London and beyond.
Harris Westminster Sixth Form: A Unique Blend of State and Independent Excellence
Image Source: The Harris Federation
Taking the fifth spot in my list of the best sixth forms in London is Harris Westminster Sixth Form. Now, this place is really interesting because it’s a team effort between the Harris Federation and the very famous Westminster School. I think it’s quite special how it mixes state-funded education with the kind of serious academic focus you often find in top independent schools.
Harris Westminster A-Level Results: Truly Outstanding Achievements!
Harris Westminster always seems to do incredibly well in its exams, which is why it’s definitely one of the top sixth forms in London. I found out that in 2024, an impressive 52% of grades were A*-A, and 77% were A*-B. On top of that, 32% of students got A*AA or even better! That really shows how good the teaching is there. Their success in getting students into university is amazing too. In 2023, 43 students got offers from Oxbridge, and 18 went off to study Medicine. And I read that in 2024, Harris Westminster actually received 57 Oxbridge offers, which was apparently more than Eton College got that year! That’s quite something.
Harris Westminster Extracurriculars: So Much More Than Just Lessons!
The extracurricular stuff at Harris Westminster sounds brilliant and really gets students thinking. I learned that all students have to join Academic Societies linked to their subjects. But beyond that, they have what they call the “Big Seven” societies, which include:
- Tirah (There Is Rice At Home)
- Intersectional Feminism
- ACT (Action Changes Things)
- Eco-Committee
- State of Mind
- Intelligent Believing
- GSA (Gender and Sexuality Alliance)
If you’re into music, there are loads of chances to get involved, with an Orchestra, Choir, and even student-led groups like a String Quartet and Jazz Band. I was really impressed to hear that students get to perform in amazing places like Westminster Abbey and St Margaret’s Church every year. Imagine that! It’s a world away from just sitting in a classroom, perhaps as exciting as trying out one of the 15 Best Escape Rooms in London for a different kind of challenge!
Harris Westminster Location: Right in the Heart of It All
You’ll find Harris Westminster at 11 Tothill Street, in a building called Steel House, which used to be a Ministry of Justice building. Being so central in London is a big plus. It’s just a short walk from Westminster School, Westminster Abbey, and St Margaret’s Church, and I found out they often use these historic places for their assemblies and performances. Getting there is easy too, as it’s close to two tube stations and lots of major bus routes. This means students from all over London can get to this top sixth form. It’s definitely one of the great best places to live in London if you want to be near excellent educational facilities.
Woodhouse College, Barnet: North London’s Academic Achiever
Image Source: FE News
Ranking sixth in my guide to the best sixth forms in London is Woodhouse College. This is a really popular state sixth form up in North London, and it acts as a great bridge between school and university. I found out it’s pretty big, with about 1,500 students aged 16-18 who come from over 180 different schools from all over the area!
Woodhouse College A-Level Results: Consistently Excellent!
Woodhouse College has a brilliant track record when it comes to exams, which definitely makes it one of the top sixth forms in London. I saw that in 2024, their students did amazingly well, with 240 of them getting at least three A grades, and over 50 students bagged three A*s! How fantastic is that? The year before, 76.5% of grades were A*-B and nearly 46% were A*-A. But their best ever results, I believe, were in 2022 when a huge 83% of grades were A*-B. They’re always ranked among the top five sixth form colleges in the country, so their high standards really make them a great choice if you’re looking at sixth form rankings London has to offer.
Woodhouse College Academic Support: Helping Every Student Shine
What I think really makes Woodhouse stand out among the best state sixth forms in London is how much support they give their students. They have a really well-organised tutorial programme where students meet up with their tutor every week for their whole two years there. This system helps students get into the right mindset and build good habits for A-level success.
On top of that, they have an Additional Learning Support (ALS) department. This is brilliant because it offers special help for students who might have learning difficulties, disabilities, or medical conditions. The services they offer include:
- One-to-one study support that’s tailored to what each student needs.
- Small group workshops.
- Access to helpful technologies and special equipment.
- Special arrangements for exams if needed.
Woodhouse College University Outcomes: Aiming High and Getting There!
Ultimately, Woodhouse is fantastic at getting its students ready for top universities. I found that over 95% of their students go on to university, and more than 60% of them get into Russell Group institutions! That’s really impressive. The 2024 group of students even got a record 43 offers for Oxford or Cambridge, which is amazing for a state sixth form. Popular universities for Woodhouse students include London universities, as well as Warwick, Kent, Manchester, and Sussex. They also have great preparation programmes for really competitive courses like medicine, and many of their graduates go into these fields. These brilliant results really cement Woodhouse’s reputation as one of the names to watch in the best sixth forms in London ranking. For students in North London, it could be one of the best places to live in London for educational opportunities.
Brampton College, Hendon: A Legacy of Top Results
Image Source: Brampton College
Next on my list, at number seven, is Brampton College in Hendon. This place has some seriously impressive academic achievements! It’s an independent sixth form college that always seems to be mentioned when people talk about the top schools in London. I found out they have a great reputation for helping students really reach their full potential. If you’re looking for the best sixth forms in London, this is one to watch.
Brampton College A-Level Results: Consistently High Achiever!
Brampton College’s results really speak for themselves and show why it’s considered one of the top sixth forms in London. I saw that in 2024, an amazing 55% of grades were A*/A. That’s much higher than the national average of 27.6% and even better than the average for independent schools, which was 49.4%! On top of that, 81% of their grades were A*-B, while the national average was 53.6%. What’s really incredible is that, according to the DfE league tables, Brampton College has been the top independent sixth form college in London for A-level results for 22 out of the last 23 years! They also do brilliantly in “value added” performance, which means they’re in the top 1% of all colleges and schools in the whole country for how much students improve.
Brampton College Facilities: Built for Learning
The college has purpose-built facilities that really help students focus on their studies. I learned that they have four science labs that have all been recently refurbished and have all the latest equipment. This means students can do a full range of experiments for their A-levels and GCSEs. For students interested in art, the campus has a large, specially designed art studio for painting, drawing, sculpture, textiles, and photography. It even has a new dark room, architect desks, and a dedicated area for textiles. It’s not just about lessons though; Brampton also provides a supervised silent library, a student common room, and plenty of computers around the campus. It sounds like a great place to study and learn with others.
Brampton College University Destinations: Heading to the Top!
The success continues when it comes to getting into university. I found that in 2024, 74% of Brampton College students who applied got places at Russell Group universities. That includes famous names like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College, LSE, UCL, Bristol, and King’s College London – some of the best universities in London and the UK! Over the years, they’ve helped a lot of students get into really competitive courses:
- 176 students have gone on to study Medicine.
- 106 students have got into Dentistry.
- 90 students have pursued Law.
- And 212 students have gone on to study Economics!
The college offers special support for university applications too. I saw they have their own preparation pack for applying and a special programme for students who want to study medical science degrees, which includes regular forums, seminars, and mock interviews. It’s clear they really prepare their students well.
London Academy of Excellence, Tottenham: Bringing Top Education to the Community
Image Source: LAE Tottenham
At number eight in my tour of the best sixth forms in London is the London Academy of Excellence Tottenham, or LAET for short. This is a state-funded sixth form, and I think it’s doing amazing work bringing top-class education to an area of London that has faced its share of challenges. It was founded in 2017, and although it’s selective about who it takes, it has quickly become known as a real educational success story.
LAE Tottenham A-Level Results: Opening Doors to Bright Futures!
LAET has some really brilliant academic results that make it a strong contender among the top sixth forms in London. I found out that the class of 2024 did incredibly well, with 57% of grades being A*/A and a fantastic 86% at A*-B. These great results mean that over two-thirds of their students go on to Russell Group universities. What’s really amazing is that in 2024, 16 students got places at Oxford and Cambridge. That brings the total to 61 Oxbridge offers since the school opened in 2017! I also discovered that two students even got full academic scholarships to Harvard University in 2024, which is just incredible. Others have landed competitive degree apprenticeships with big names like Rokos Capital Management, Shell, Jaguar Land Rover, Goldman Sachs, and Amazon.
LAE Tottenham Partnerships: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work!
The way this sixth form works with partners is quite unique and really contributes to its success in the sixth form rankings London offers. I learned that LAET gets financial support from Tottenham Hotspur Football Club and educational backing from Highgate School. Highgate even seconds its teaching staff to LAET across different subjects. The school is based within the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium development, and this teamwork means that local students get expert teaching from independent schools. There’s also something called the Chrysalis East programme, which is funded by Rokos Capital Management. This programme helps to bring high-quality teaching to four local feeder schools, which is brilliant for helping bright students in the wider community. It’s great to see this kind of support, which is just as important as, say, knowing how to bleed a radiator to keep your home running smoothly!
LAE Tottenham Student Support: Looking After Everyone
It’s not just about academics at LAET; they offer amazing student support, which really sets them apart as one of the best state sixth forms in London. They have a pastoral system with tutors and a house structure, so students always have someone to turn to if they have any personal issues. Although the school has high academic entry requirements (five GCSEs at grades 9-7), they make a point of prioritising local students from less advantaged backgrounds. To help with any extra challenges, LAET has specialists like an SEN Learning Support Lead, a Mental Health Lead, and a School Counsellor. I also found out they set up a hardship fund during the pandemic and continue to provide help with basic things for students from the Northumberland Park ward, which is one of the 2% most deprived areas in the country. It’s wonderful to see a school caring so much.
East London Arts and Music (ELAM): Nurturing Creative Talent
Image Source: inspire-music
Taking the next spot in my guide to the best sixth forms in London is East London Arts and Music, or ELAM for short. This place is a full-time Industry Academy specifically for 16-19 year olds who are really passionate about Music, Film and Television Production, or Games Design. You’ll find it in Bromley-by-Bow, and I think it’s brilliant because it offers a creative education that’s really focused on careers in these exciting industries.
ELAM Creative Curriculum: Learning by Doing
ELAM’s curriculum is designed with the industry in mind, and it offers three main pathways through something called the UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma – that’s equivalent to doing 3 A-Levels. I also found out that students study English and Mathematics alongside their creative subjects, with options from GCSEs up to A-Levels, depending on what level they start at. Their 2024 results really show how good ELAM is. An amazing 81% of Games Design students got Distinctions, which is like getting 3 A*s at A-Level! That’s way above the national average of 30%. It was a similar story for Film and TV students, where 76% got Distinctions, and Music students, where 73% achieved them. It’s not just about grades, though. ELAM really focuses on core values like resilience, working together, and being independent. These are skills just as important as knowing how to clean your washing machine for keeping things running smoothly in life!
ELAM Industry Partnerships: Amazing Connections!
One of the coolest things about ELAM is its connections to the creative industries. I learned that Universal Music UK is their founding partner and was involved right from the very beginning. But their network is much bigger than that! From 2025, a company called AEG Presents will be giving ELAM students mentoring, internships, and masterclasses through a partnership with the LIDO Festival. Plus, PPL (that’s Phonographic Performance Limited) provides funding for three years to support programmes that help students from under-represented communities. This includes industry engagement events, mental health support, and even travel bursaries. These partnerships mean students get real-world experiences that can help them break into the creative sector, which can sometimes be tricky.
ELAM Student Outcomes: Launching Creative Careers!
It’s so exciting to see where ELAM graduates end up! I found out that famous alumni include FLO, the trio who won BBC’s Sound of 2023 and the Brits Rising Star Award in the same year! Naomi Kimpenu, who won the Ivor Novello Rising Star Award in 2022, also went to ELAM, as did Sekou, who was recently longlisted for the BBC’s Sound of 2024. Other successful graduates include Aeris Roves, who signed to Sony RCA, JVCK JAMES, who has toured with Grammy winner Ella Mai, and Jess Oghenegweke, who is now a BBC Earth presenter. Ofsted even recognised how good their industry links are, saying that “Trainees benefit from the academy’s exceptionally strong links with industry.” This practical focus definitely makes ELAM one of the top sixth forms in London if you’re dreaming of a career in the creative world. It sounds like a fantastic place to turn passion into a profession, maybe even more inspiring than finding one of those 17 Hidden Fast Food Restaurants in London That Locals Love!
UCL Academy Sixth Form: University-Sponsored Success!
Image Source: UCL Academy
Next up, at number ten in my list of the best sixth forms in London, is the UCL Academy Sixth Form. This place is really interesting because it was set up with a groundbreaking idea – a university sponsoring it! I found out this innovative school opened its doors in 2012 in Swiss Cottage, Camden. It was actually the very first academy in the whole country to have a university, the famous University College London (UCL), as its one and only sponsor. That’s quite a claim to fame!
UCL Academy A-Level Results: Above and Beyond!
The academic results at UCL Academy really show why it deserves a spot among the top sixth forms in London. I learned that their students consistently do better than the national average in important subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and Engineering. They’ve had some amazing individual successes in recent years too. For example, one student, Nayeeb Choudhury, achieved an incredible 4 A*s in Economics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, and Politics! Another student, Hana Molokhia, got 3 A*s in Engineering, Mathematics, and Further Mathematics, plus an A in Physics. Those are some seriously brilliant grades!
UCL Academy University Links: A Special Connection
What I think really makes UCL Academy stand out when you look at best sixth forms in London ranking lists is its unique link with University College London. It’s not just a casual partnership; UCL actually takes “full responsibility for governance, leadership and curriculum.” This creates some amazing opportunities for the students. I was so impressed to hear that in one year alone, 6 students confirmed they were going on to study at UCL itself. And their graduates regularly get into other top universities like Imperial College London, King’s College London, LSE, and Warwick – many of which are considered among the best universities in London. I read that this strong record comes from the students being introduced to university-style thinking right from their very first day, which they actually spend on UCL’s main campus in Bloomsbury!
UCL Academy Learning Environment: Thinking Big!
The way they teach at UCL Academy is based around something they call the ‘Connected Curriculum’. This idea comes from UCL’s Grand Challenges principle, which is all about different subjects working together. So, instead of learning subjects separately, students here get to explore a curriculum that’s “driven by important questions and big ideas.” I love that! They also have a ‘Big Questions’ scheme which helps teachers and students make links between different subjects. All of this means that sixth formers get to develop really good critical thinking and problem-solving skills because they hear from and work with academics and students at UCL. On top of their usual studies, they also get chances for workplace learning, which is especially helpful for students who might be the first in their family to think about going to university. Thinking about the future and opportunities is always wise, a bit like looking into the best cash ISAs to make your savings work harder.
MPW College, South Kensington: Tutorial-Style Learning
Image Source: MPW Colleges
Making its way into my list at number eleven is MPW College in South Kensington. This place is really well known for its special tutorial-style way of teaching, which I think is quite unique. It’s an independent college that started back in 1973. I’ve heard it offers a more grown-up learning environment where students are on a first-name basis with their tutors, which helps create a hard-working but still relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It’s definitely a strong contender when you’re looking at the best sixth forms in London.
MPW A-Level Results: Consistent Success Stories
MPW College has some impressive exam results, which really backs up its place among the top sixth forms in London. I found out that in 2024, their students did brilliantly, with 38% of A-level grades being A*/A and 65% at A*-B. Over the last few years, they’ve consistently seen strong performances, and A*/A grades are often the most common ones their students achieve. What I also found interesting is that students who retake their A-levels at MPW typically improve their grades by an average of 1.5 grades! About two-thirds of these students then go on to Russell Group universities. This strong record of helping students improve really puts MPW on the map in the sixth form rankings London offers.
MPW Class Sizes: Small is Mighty!
What I think really makes MPW different from many other best sixth forms in London ranking highly is their dedication to small class sizes. They have a strict rule of a maximum of 10 students per class, but I learned that in reality, their classes usually only have about 6 students on average! This means teachers can give really personal instruction, and every student gets a lot of individual attention. It’s not just about the academics; this small setting helps build good relationships between teachers and students and encourages everyone to get involved. It really changes the feel of a traditional classroom into something much more collaborative.
MPW UCAS Support: Guiding You to University
The help MPW gives with university applications sounds amazing, and it’s mostly done through their Director of Studies system. Every student gets a personal Director who supports them all the way through the UCAS process. For students aiming for really competitive courses like Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, and Law, MPW offers special preparation. I also saw that students get loads of chances to practise for interviews, and they even use video facilities if it helps. As part of getting ready for uni, students go to a series of seminars for particular degree courses, which are led by university admissions tutors and other professionals in those fields. Plus, the college provides specific preparation for university entrance tests like the UCAT, BMAT, and LNAT. All these resources clearly show why MPW is always up there with the best sixth forms in London. It’s like having a personal guide for your journey, a bit like how my guides to 15 Unusual Free Things to Do in London can help you explore the city!
Albemarle Independent College, Marble Arch: Traditional Teaching, Modern Success
Image Source: www.albemarle.org.uk
Sliding into the twelfth spot in my guide to the best sixth forms in London is Albemarle Independent College, right in the heart of Central London at Marble Arch. This is an award-winning college, and I found they use traditional teaching methods but in small groups. Their main focus is on helping students develop really good exam skills and get ready for university.
Albemarle A-Level Results: A Decade of Excellence!
Albemarle has built up a really strong academic reputation over the years, which is why it’s included in discussions about sixth form rankings London offers. I discovered that their full-time A-level students have achieved an incredible 100% pass rate! And get this – they’ve averaged 88% A* – B grades over the last ten years, which is much higher than the national average. This consistent success has put Albemarle among the top 10 independent colleges in London. Looking at their 2021-22 results, one of their star students, Curtis O’Keeffe, got A*AA* and then went off to Brown University in the USA! And in previous years, students like Nina Zeiler got A*A*AA before heading to Cambridge University. That’s really inspiring!
Albemarle Student Mentorship: Personalised Support
A really special feature at Albemarle is their mentorship programme. I learned that every student gets a personal tutor who keeps a close eye on how they’re doing academically. The tutor also helps them meet deadlines for their assignments and gives them good advice on study techniques. Class sizes are kept really small – usually around 4-5 students, with a maximum of eight. This means the teaching can be very personalised. They also do regular testing to see if any students need extra help. If someone is finding things a bit tough, they get supervised sessions and extra support. Plus, they teach students how to study on their own and good exam techniques. I also found out that they create formal reports every month, which parents and students can see online. This means everyone can keep track of progress, which is a bit like how keeping an eye on your bank balance helps you how to improve your credit score! They also have Parent Evenings in the autumn and spring terms.
Albemarle Career Guidance: Preparing for the Future
Beyond just getting good grades, Albemarle is great at helping students get ready for their future careers. I saw that the Principals themselves get involved in career planning and even help arrange work experience opportunities for students. When it comes to university applications, they give specialised advice to help students choose the right degree course. What I thought was really lovely is that many former students come back to the college to offer advice to current students and share what university life is really like. This kind of guidance has clearly worked wonders, as their graduates have gone on to top universities like Oxford, LSE, Imperial College, and Cambridge. It’s no wonder Albemarle is considered one of the best sixth forms in London for all-round preparation.
DLD College, Westminster: Boarding in the Heart of the City!
Image Source: FE News
Next up on my list of the best sixth forms in London is DLD College Westminster. Now, this place is pretty unique because I found out it’s the only college in central London that has both boarding and teaching facilities all in the same building! Imagine that – students live right above their classrooms. It sounds like it creates a really convenient, safe, and friendly community atmosphere.
DLD A-Level Results: Impressive Achievements!
DLD College has some really impressive academic results, which definitely earns it a place among the top sixth forms in London. I saw that in 2022, their students achieved a fantastic 40% of grades at A*-A and 70% at A*-B. That was a big jump of 13% and 15% compared to the results before the pandemic! The year before that was even more amazing, with students getting a 100% pass rate and 82% of grades at A*-B. And it’s not just A-Levels where DLD students do well. I found out their BTEC students also get brilliant results, with 92% of grades awarded at Distinction level in 2022 – that’s like getting three A*-A grades at A-Level!
DLD Boarding Facilities: Home Away From Home
When it comes to living at DLD, they offer 220 ensuite bedrooms. These are arranged by age, with separate floors for boys and girls. The rooms are described as “some of the best boarding accommodation available in the UK,” which sounds pretty good! I learned that students can choose from different types of rooms:
- Single Ensuite
- Premier Single Ensuite
- Twin Ensuite
- Platinum Single Ensuite
Each floor has its own common room with kitchen facilities. The main social hub seems to be the Atrium, where students can meet visitors, play table football, watch films on a giant projector screen, or hang out in the Global Kitchen. And here’s a nice perk – students over 16 can join the Urbanest health club, which is right there in the basement and has a gym, swimming pool, and sauna! It’s like having some of the best features of the best places to live in London right on your doorstep.
DLD Extracurricular Activities: Learning Beyond the Classroom
DLD College offers a huge range of co-curricular activities – over 50 clubs and things to do! They really believe in the importance of learning outside of lessons. Being right in central London means they can arrange some amazing experiences for their students. I read about trips to Wembley Stadium for football matches, concerts at the Royal Albert Hall, and visits to West End theatres. On campus, students can join all sorts of things, from the DLD Dragons Esports Gaming Team to a Horticulture Club. It sounds like there’s something for everyone, and the college encourages all students to take part in at least one activity. This helps them develop skills like communication and teamwork, and also to get involved in the community. It sounds like a lot of fun, maybe even as much fun as exploring some 18 Fun Things to Do in London with Kids if you’re looking for weekend excitement!
Westminster Tutors, South Kensington: A Truly Personalised Education
Image Source: www.westminstertutors.co.uk
Completing my review of the 14 best sixth forms in London is Westminster Tutors. This is a real historic gem, tucked away in South Kensington. It was founded way back in 1934! I think what makes this prestigious place really stand out is its dedication to a personalised education, using a teaching approach that’s quite unlike any other sixth form I’ve come across.
Westminster Tutors A-Level Results: Impressive Outcomes!
Even though Westminster Tutors isn’t selective about who it takes, they consistently get some impressive academic results. This definitely earns them a place among the top sixth forms in London. I found out that in 2024, their students achieved remarkable results, with 43% of grades at A*-A and an amazing 80% at A*-B. And they had a perfect 100% pass rate! That really shows how effective their personal approach is. Previous years have been just as good – in 2023, 32% of grades were A*-A. These great results have helped students get into some brilliant universities, including Bristol to study Medicine, Imperial for Chemistry and Molecular Physics, and UCL for History.
Westminster Tutors One-to-One Teaching: A Unique Approach
What I think truly makes Westminster Tutors different when you look at sixth form rankings London offers is their teaching model. They say they are “the only 1:1 teacher/student ratio college in London,” which is like the tutorial system they have at Oxford. How amazing is that? While most of their teaching is one-to-one, if they do have small groups, it’s usually just 2-3 students. I also read that their classes happen in “art-adorned, quirky classrooms, some offering breathtaking views over Chelsea’s rooftops.” That sounds like a really inspiring place to learn! It’s certainly a contrast to a standard classroom, maybe as unique as some of the 17 Weird & Quirky Things to Do in London That Aren’t in Guidebooks!
Westminster Tutors Mentorship Program: Support Every Step of the Way
More than anything, it’s their mentorship programme that I think sets Westminster Tutors apart when considering the best sixth forms in London ranking so well. Every student gets weekly one-to-one mentoring sessions. These focus on study skills, getting organised, and planning their work. I found out that this system was first developed for students with special educational needs, but the college saw how much it helped and decided to offer it to all their students. That’s brilliant! The mentors give academic advice and also pastoral support, helping students to “gain in confidence, thrive academically and feel ready to tackle the challenges of adult life and university.” This mentoring system was a key part of their thinking from the start and has become a really important part of what makes them so special.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Sixth Form Fit in London!
Wow, after looking into all these amazing sixth forms, I’m really blown away by the fantastic choices available for students in London! It’s clear that if you’re ambitious and looking for one of the best sixth forms in London, our capital city has some truly brilliant places that get top A-Level results, often way above the national average. What I’ve loved discovering is just how different all the opportunities are – from super specialised maths teaching at King’s Maths School to getting you ready for a career in the creative industries at ELAM.
It’s obvious that each of these schools and colleges has its own special strengths. I’ve seen that amazing state sixth forms like Newham Collegiate and the London Academy of Excellence campuses prove you don’t always need to pay a fortune for an outstanding education. At the same time, independent places like Brampton College and Westminster Tutors offer really personal ways of teaching that help students do their very best. One thing that seems to pop up a lot with these top performers is having small class sizes. I think that really helps students get the individual attention they need to succeed. Plus, many of them have strong links with universities, which is great for helping students get into those top institutions, with lots of them sending students to Oxford and Cambridge from both state and independent backgrounds.
So, if you’re trying to choose a sixth form, it’s not just about looking at the exam results. I really believe you need to think about how they teach, what kind of extracurricular activities they offer, and how much support you’ll get. Finding the right place can really change your whole educational journey. It’s not just about learning facts; it’s about developing how you think and becoming more independent, which are so important for university and beyond. Making this choice is a big step, maybe even bigger than deciding which 13 Best Places to Live in London suits your lifestyle!
These fourteen amazing sixth forms have really earned their reputations. They’re known for being consistently excellent, trying new ways of teaching, and being totally committed to helping their students achieve. Their success stories truly show that London is a world-class city for sixth form education. I hope my guide to the best sixth forms in London helps you find the perfect place for your next big adventure in learning!
FAQs: Your Questions Answered About the Best Sixth Forms in London!
Q1. Which sixth form in London has the highest A-level results from your list?
From what I’ve seen in my research for this guide, King’s Maths School in Lambeth is incredible! They had 91% of grades at A*-A in 2023, and half of their students got straight A*s. That’s pretty amazing and really sets them apart as one of the best sixth forms in London for top results.
Q2. What makes Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Centre (NCS) stand out among London’s sixth forms in your opinion?
NCS is definitely a standout for me! Their academic results are fantastic, with 97% of A-Level grades at A*-B. I also found it amazing that they have a higher Oxbridge application success rate than Eton College! Plus, their “classical trivium” approach to education sounds really unique and helps them rank as one of the top sixth forms in London.
Q3. How do state sixth forms in London compare to independent institutions in your findings?
That’s a great question! I’ve found that many state sixth forms in London, like the London Academy of Excellence in Stratford and Harris Westminster Sixth Form, are getting results that are just as good as some of the big-name independent schools. For example, LAE Stratford achieved 92% of grades at A*-B in recent exams. It shows you don’t always have to go private to find some of the best sixth forms in London.
Q4. What unique features did you find some of London’s top sixth forms offer?
Oh, there are some really interesting features! For instance, Harris Westminster has that cool mix of state-funded education with the style of an independent school. And East London Arts and Music (ELAM) is brilliant because it’s so focused on creative industries and has those strong links with businesses. It makes the choice of best sixth forms in London really varied.
Q5. How important do you think small class sizes are in London’s top sixth forms?
From what I’ve seen, small class sizes seem to be a big factor in many of the top-performing sixth forms in London. Places like MPW College and Westminster Tutors really focus on small group teaching, or even one-to-one. I think this allows for much more personal attention and learning that’s tailored to each student, which definitely helps them do well and makes these institutions some of the best sixth forms in London. It reminds me a bit of how important individual advice can be, like when you’re trying to figure out how to improve your credit score!
