London hosts roughly 250 independent schools across day and boarding. The most academic selective day schools (Westminster, St Paul's, City of London, North London Collegiate, King's College School Wimbledon, Wycombe Abbey, Highgate) sit at the top of the market.
The London independent market
London hosts roughly 250 independent schools across day and boarding. The most academic selective day schools (Westminster, St Paul's, City of London, North London Collegiate, King's College School Wimbledon, Wycombe Abbey, Highgate) sit at the top of the market.
Day schools by London quadrant
North London: Highgate, North London Collegiate, Habs Boys and Girls (just outside London). South-west: King's College School Wimbledon, Putney High, Wimbledon High. Central: Westminster, St Paul's Junior, City of London, City Boys and Girls. Each catchment has its own character; see London zones for international schools.
Senior-school fees
Day fees at top London independents sit at GBP 24,000 to 32,000 for senior years post-2025 VAT. Boarding adds GBP 12,000 to 18,000 on top.
Admissions
Year 7 (age 11) is the dominant entry point for most top day schools. Some have Year 9 (13+) entry; a smaller number have Year 12 (16+) entry with strong subject conditions. Pre-test for 11+ entry sits around age 10. Apply 18 to 24 months ahead.