Top 12 A Level Schools in UK – Which One is the Best?

Choosing the right A Level school can have a big impact on university options and future plans. A Levels are the main entry route into UK universities, so strong results can open doors to competitive courses such as medicine, law, economics and engineering.

Most league tables rank schools by the percentage of A*-A grades their students achieve. This makes it easier to compare academic performance, but it doesn’t always show the full picture. Families still want to understand the school environment, teaching style and student support, not just raw numbers.

This guide is designed for parents and students who want a clear, friendly overview rather than a complicated data sheet. The list highlights the top 12 A Level schools in the UK and explains what makes each one stand out.

Top A Level Schools in the UK

Choosing between top A Level schools can feel overwhelming. This top 12 A Level schools list gives you a quick feel for each school’s results, environment and strengths, so you can see which places might suit you best. Each mini-profile is simple and clear, helping you focus on what matters most for your A Level journey.

1. Cardiff Sixth Form College

Cardiff Sixth Form College is known for outstanding A Level results and a strong academic focus. The atmosphere is international and the school specialises in sixth form only, which creates a focused learning environment. It suits highly motivated students who want structure, support and a clear path towards competitive universities.

2. St Paul’s School

St Paul’s School is a boys’ independent school with excellent A Level performance across subjects. It’s especially strong in maths, sciences and classics, supported by a wide range of co-curricular opportunities. It works well for ambitious students who enjoy academic stretch and a lively school culture.

3. St Paul’s Girls’ School

St Paul’s Girls’ School consistently achieves top A Level results. The school is known for academic ambition, high expectations and a strong sense of community. It’s a great choice for girls who want a challenging environment with strong support in both academics and the arts.

4. Westminster School

Westminster School sits in central London and delivers exceptional A Level grades with strong Oxbridge success. Students can join as day pupils or boarders and there is a huge range of societies and super-curricular options. It suits students who thrive in a fast-paced, academic and urban setting.

5. St Michael’s School, Llanelli

St Michael’s School offers strong A Level outcomes in a smaller, co-educational setting. The community is close-knit and the school has a focused approach to exam preparation. It’s ideal for students who prefer a quieter environment with clear expectations and personal support.

6. Brighton College

Brighton College is a high-performing co-ed school with excellent A Level results. The school balances academic success with sport, arts and a friendly seaside atmosphere. It’s a good choice for families looking for strong academics without sacrificing a well-rounded school experience.

7. King’s College School, Wimbledon

King’s College School delivers very strong A Level performance within its co-ed sixth form. Students benefit from a wide subject choice, strong music and sport, and easy access to central London. It suits students aiming for top universities who also want an active, balanced school life.

8. North London Collegiate School

North London Collegiate School is known for outstanding A Level results and a serious academic culture. The school offers excellent university guidance and strong super-curricular support. It’s best for highly driven girls who enjoy depth, challenge and a supportive environment.

9. Queen Ethelburga’s College

Queen Ethelburga’s College is a large, co-ed school with strong A Level results and multiple pathways for different learners. The modern campus, boarding focus and wide range of subjects create a flexible and supportive environment. It’s ideal for students who want choice, facilities and a vibrant campus feel.

10. Guildford High School for Girls

Guildford High School is a girls’ day school with consistently excellent A Level outcomes. It offers a supportive community, strong music and drama and a well-rounded co-curricular programme. It’s a great option for families wanting strong academics in a friendly, local setting.

11. Wycombe Abbey School

Wycombe Abbey is a top girls’ boarding school known for its high A Level grades and long-standing academic reputation. Students benefit from strong pastoral support and a busy boarding life. It suits girls who want full boarding and a structured, high-achieving environment.

12. The Godolphin and Latymer School

The Godolphin and Latymer School is a leading West London girls’ school with excellent A Level results. It offers a mix of academic ambition, creative subjects and an international outlook. It’s well-suited to students who want a day school with challenge, balance and strong university guidance.

How to Choose the Right A Level School for You

Choosing the right A Level school is not only about results. It’s about finding a place where your subjects, goals and daily routine all fit comfortably.

Start by checking whether the school offers the subjects you want. Not every school has the same combinations. If your preferred mix isn’t available, think about which subjects you’re willing to switch or whether another school might suit you better. Subjects shape your timetable and your plans, so this part matters a lot.

Next, think about the type of school environment you prefer. Some families like the structure of boarding, while others prefer the flexibility of day schools. Location also plays a role. A long commute can be tiring, especially during exam season. Try to imagine the daily routine: how early you need to wake up, how much travel is involved and whether it fits your family’s schedule.

School culture is another big factor. Some A Level schools have a high-pressure academic atmosphere, while others aim for a more balanced approach with strong pastoral care. Think about what environment helps you do your best. A school that suits one student perfectly might feel overwhelming to another.

When reading A Level statistics, avoid focusing too much on just one year of results. Grades can vary from cohort to cohort, and a short-term dip doesn’t always reflect the school’s long-term quality. Look at patterns across several years, and combine this with insight into the school’s teaching, support and student wellbeing.

Finally, try to visit schools in person if you can. Open days, online tours and talking to current students give you a real sense of what life is like there. Prospectuses and league tables are helpful, but nothing replaces seeing the community and atmosphere for yourself.

A Level Schools – Entry Requirements and Admissions Tips

Top A Level schools usually expect strong GCSE results. Many look for a high proportion of grades 7-9, with minimum grades in key subjects like Maths, English and any subjects you want to take at A Level.

Most selective schools also use entrance exams and interviews. You might sit papers in maths, English or reasoning and then have a short interview to discuss your interests, strengths and school reports. References from your current school are often part of the process.

Good schools also think about your future plans. They may offer help with building super-curricular evidence, such as wider reading, academic clubs or competitions, which later support university applications and personal statements.

It’s worth remembering that some selective state sixth forms and grammar schools also have excellent A Level results. They set their own entry rules, usually based on GCSE grades and sometimes their own assessments. Always read each school’s admissions page carefully so you know exactly what is expected before you apply.

A Level Schools – Fees and Scholarships

Most of the schools at the top of A Level league tables are independent, so fees are an important part of the picture. Day fees and boarding fees can be very different, and costs also vary by region and year group. It’s best to check each school’s website for the latest figures, as they change regularly.

Many schools offer scholarships for academics, music, art, drama or sport. These usually reduce fees by a set percentage or give a fixed discount. They are often competitive and may come with extra expectations, such as taking part in concerts, teams or clubs.

Alongside scholarships, there are means-tested bursaries. These are based on family income and financial circumstances and can sometimes cover a large part of the fees. Because bursary funds are limited, parents should look into them early and be ready with documents when applying.

It’s also worth remembering that some state sixth forms and grammar schools achieve excellent A Level results and do not charge tuition fees. For some families, a strong local state option can be a very good alternative to an independent sixth form.

Conclusion

The best A Level school is the one that fits the student, not just the one at the top of a league table. Every school has its own strengths, culture and style, so it’s important to think about what will help your child feel confident, supported and motivated.

Use rankings as a starting point, but don’t rely on numbers alone. Visiting schools, speaking to staff, exploring open days and hearing from current students will give you a much clearer picture of daily life and expectations. These experiences often reveal things that league tables can’t.

If your child needs extra support along the way, online A Level tutoring can make a real difference. It can help them build strong study habits, fill subject gaps and feel more prepared for selective sixth form environments.

With the right school and the right support, students can thrive academically and enjoy a positive, balanced A Level experience that prepares them well for university and beyond.