Choosing the right sixth form is a pivotal decision for students aiming for top A-level results and competitive university admissions. London’s leading sixth forms consistently deliver outstanding academic outcomes, high university progression rates, and exceptional student support. This 2025 guide presents the best sixth form schools in London, with up-to-date figures and a clear indication of each school’s status as a state or independent institution.
| Rank | School Name | Location | Type | Key Strengths & Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | King’s College London Mathematics School | Lambeth | State (Selective) |
2024 A-levels: 77% A*, 97.6% A*-A, 99.5% A*-B. 38% of leavers to Oxford or Cambridge. Sunday Times Sixth Form College of the Year 2025. Specialist in maths, further maths, and physics |
| 2 | Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Centre (NCS) | Newham | State (Selective) |
2024 A-levels: 96% A*-B, 100% A*-C. 29.2% Oxbridge application success rate (higher than Eton). Over 95% progress to Russell Group or Ivy League universities |
| 3 | London Academy of Excellence (LAE) Stratford | Newham | State (Selective) |
2024 A-levels: 32% A*, 72% A*-A, 92% A*-B. 25 students to Oxford or Cambridge; 40 to medical degrees. Top 10 UK A-level provider; high proportion of students from disadvantaged backgrounds |
| 4 | Harris Westminster Sixth Form | Westminster | State (Selective) |
2024 A-levels: 19% A*, 52% A*-A, 77% A*-B. 41 students to Oxford or Cambridge (2024, Harris Federation total). Outstanding Ofsted; strong support for disadvantaged students |
| 5 | Woodhouse College | Barnet | State (Sixth Form College) |
2024 A-levels: 17.5% A*, 49.7% A*-A, 79.7% A*-B. 240 students achieved at least three As. Consistently high value-added scores |
| 6 | Brampton College | Barnet | Independent |
2024 A-levels: 55% A*/A, 81% A*-B. 74% of applicants to Russell Group universities. Top independent sixth form in London for 22 of last 23 years |
| 7 | Ashbourne College | Kensington | Independent |
2024 A-levels: 46% A*A, 78% A*AB, 93% A*ABC. 63% progress to Russell Group universities. Top 2.5% for value-added in the UK |
| 8 | London Academy of Excellence Tottenham | Haringey | State (Selective) |
2024 A-levels: 55% A*-A, 86% A*-B. Majority progress to Russell Group universities. Record number of degree apprenticeship offers |
| 9 | St Dominic’s Sixth Form College | Harrow-on-the-Hill | State (Sixth Form College) |
2024 A-levels: 32.4% A*/A, 62.2% A*-B, 99% pass rate. High Russell Group progression; outstanding Ofsted |
| 10 | Westminster City School Sixth Form | Westminster | State (High School) |
2024 A-levels: 58% A*-B, 83% A*-C. Significant year-on-year improvement. Strong pastoral support and business links |
Admissions to London’s top sixth forms are highly competitive. Most selective state sixth forms and colleges require high GCSE grades (often a minimum of 7s or 8s in relevant subjects), and some have entrance assessments or interviews. Application deadlines are typically in the autumn or early spring of Year 11. Independent colleges may have rolling admissions but also require strong academic records and, in some cases, entrance exams or interviews. Open days and taster sessions are strongly recommended to help students and families make informed choices. Early application and careful attention to each school’s specific requirements are essential for success.
London’s sixth form landscape is among the most competitive and academically successful in the UK, offering a wealth of opportunities for ambitious students. The top 10 sixth form schools highlighted in this guide consistently achieve outstanding A-level results, with many students progressing to leading universities including Oxford, Cambridge, and other Russell Group institutions. Whether state-funded or independent, these schools are known for their rigorous academic standards, expert teaching, and comprehensive support systems that help students excel both in their studies and personal development.
Admissions to these elite sixth forms are highly competitive, typically requiring excellent GCSE results and, in some cases, entrance assessments or interviews. Early research, timely applications, and a clear understanding of each school’s unique strengths are essential for success. By carefully considering the options and preparing thoroughly for the admissions process, students and families can maximize their chances of joining one of London’s best sixth form schools and laying the foundation for future academic and career achievements.