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Queen Elizabeth's School Crowned Nation's Best
5 Dec
Summary
- Queen Elizabeth's School in Barnet named the UK's top secondary.
- London schools dominate top 20 comprehensives and primary lists.
- Dame Alice Owen's School ranks best comprehensive nationwide.
Queen Elizabeth's School, a grammar institution located in Barnet, London, has ascended to the top position as the nation's leading secondary school according to the latest rankings. This year's data highlights a strong performance from schools within the capital and the South East, which feature prominently across both grammar and comprehensive categories. Several London-based institutions have secured significant placements within the top 20 comprehensive schools.
Dame Alice Owen's School in Potters Bar has been recognized as the foremost comprehensive school not only in the South East but across the entire UK. West London Free School also received accolades, being named the second-best comprehensive and the comprehensive school of the year for 2026, underscoring a competitive educational landscape.
The rankings, compiled by The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide, are primarily determined by exam results from summer 2025, though editorial discretion also plays a role. This year's report celebrates educators' resilience and innovation in navigating contemporary educational challenges, including budget constraints and student well-being.
