Top State & Grammar Schools in the UK 2025

Which Ones Are Leading the Pack?

More than ever, parents are asking: Which state or grammar schools in the UK are actually delivering exceptional exam performance? With the recent shift that added 20% VAT on independent school fees, even more families are considering state education. The numbers speak loudly — and these schools are making their mark.

This 2025 ranking is based on the latest GCSE and A-Level league tables from Britannia. We’ve spotlighted the very best grammar (selective) schools — and we’ll be back with the top comprehensives (non‑selective) once all the 2025 results are officially confirmed.

Want a reminder of past performers? You can also check out our 2024 roundup, which focused solely on GCSEs and featured a slightly different mix of high achievers.

What’s New in 2025?

• In 2024, our rankings were based only on GCSE results. Now, we include both GCSE and A‑Levels for a more complete picture from Year 7 through to university readiness.

• Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet retains its number one position at both GCSE and A-Level — consistency at its finest.

• Pate’s Grammar School moves up, now placing in the top five in both category rankings.

• Altrincham Grammar School for Girls and The Latymer School hold steady in the top ranks.

• Heckmondwike Grammar School joins the top five in GCSEs, reminding us that academic excellence can shine outside London and the South East.

• We’re still waiting for the full 2025 data for comprehensives — once released, we’ll publish our Top 5 list for those too.

🏅 Top 5 UK State Secondary Schools — GCSE Results (2025)

1. Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet (Selective)
95.4% of GCSEs graded 9–7
This boys’ grammar keeps its top spot thanks to rigorous teaching, a strong track record of Oxbridge successes, and superb student outcomes.

2. Pate’s Grammar School, Cheltenham (Selective)
90% of GCSEs graded 9–7
Co-ed and forward-looking, Pate’s blends academic excellence with creativity and community. It’s one of the most competitive grammar schools in the South West.

3. Altrincham Grammar School for Girls (Selective)
86% of GCSEs graded 9–7
A powerhouse in STEM and beyond, this school is known for high academic standards and excellent student support.

4. The Latymer School, London (Selective)
84.5% of GCSEs graded 9–7
With superb exam results and a rich cultural offering, Latymer helps students thrive across academics and beyond.

5. Heckmondwike Grammar School, West Yorkshire (Selective)
84% of GCSEs graded 9–7
One of the northern stars — showing that outstanding results aren’t just for the Southeast.

🎓 Top 5 UK State Secondary Schools — A‑Level Results (2025)

1. Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet (Selective)
85% of A‑Levels graded A/A*
Dominating at both GCSE and A-Level, QE continues to send students off to top universities.

2. Wilson’s School, Wallington (Selective)
79% A/A*
Particularly strong in maths and sciences, this boys’ grammar pairs academic rigour with care and support.

3. St Olave’s Grammar School, Orpington (Selective)
78% A/A*
A leading boys’ school that excels in both science and humanities, preparing students for a wide range of paths.

4. Pate’s Grammar School, Cheltenham (Selective)
76% A/A*
Echoing its GCSE strength, Pate’s delivers excellent A-Level results across multiple disciplines.

5. Reading School, Reading (Selective)
71% A/A*
A long-established school combining tradition with modern success.

What’s Happening with Comprehensive (Non‑Selective) Schools?

We’re still waiting on the final 2025 GCSE data for non-selective schools. Once it’s available through the Department for Education and league table providers, we’ll update this post with the top performers.

(If you missed it, our 2024 edition already showcased some high-achieving comprehensives across the UK — and many non-selective schools regularly match or beat expectations.)

Grammar vs Comprehensive: Why It Still Matters

• Grammar schools admit students via the 11+ exam and often dominate top academic rankings because of their selective intake.

• Comprehensive schools accept all local children, without selection. Despite that, many still produce outstanding results.

For many parents, the decision centers on location, admissions policies, and school ethos — not just exam results. If you’re applying in 2026, our secondary school admissions guide breaks down everything you need to know.

Why State Education Is Getting More Attention in 2025

The introduction of 20% VAT on private school fees has shifted many families’ thinking. A recent survey revealed that 1 in 4 parents are now considering moving their children from private to state education — some even willing to relocate for seats at top-performing schools.

Application Tips: How to Secure a Place at a State School

• Grammar schools: Students sit the 11+ exam in Year 6. Registration is mandatory and deadlines vary by Local Authority.

• Comprehensive schools: Places are usually awarded based on local catchment area.

• Key date: The Common Application Form (CAF) for Year 7 entries must be submitted by 31 October of Year 6. Grammar schools often require separate registration for the 11+ exam.

Check your local authority and school websites early for exact dates and requirements.

FAQs — Quick Answers

• Which UK state schools did best in 2025?
  Top performers include Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet; Pate’s Grammar; Altrincham Grammar for Girls; The Latymer School; and Heckmondwike Grammar.

• Which had the best A-Level results?
  Queen Elizabeth’s (Barnet), Wilson’s, St Olave’s, Pate’s, and Reading.

• Do non-selective schools ever excel?
  Yes — many do. We’re just waiting for the full 2025 data to confirm who leads.

• How do grammar and comprehensive schools differ?
  Grammar: Academic selection. Comprehensive: Non-selective, local intake.

• When’s the deadline for applications?
  CAF by 31 October (Year 6). Don’t miss this, and be aware of separate 11+ registration deadlines.