Queen Elizabeth School in Barnet has been recognized as the top state secondary school in London, earning the prestigious title of State Secondary School of the Year. This accolade comes as part of the Sunday Times Parent Power league table for 2026, which highlights outstanding achievements in education across the region. The school has distinguished itself by producing remarkable examination results, with more than 64 percent of students attaining the highest possible grade, level nine, in their exams last year.
The league table, compiled by The Times, reported a significant average rise of 9.4 places in secondary school performance compared to the previous year. This improvement outpaced private schools, underscoring the commitment to academic excellence in state education. Queen Elizabeth School’s success is attributed to its rigorous academic curriculum, which includes core subjects such as English, maths, science, humanities, and a modern foreign language for students in Years 10 and 11.
Academic Achievements and Supportive Environment
In addition to the foundational subjects, many pupils at Queen Elizabeth School opt to study economics, Latin, arts, and technology, broadening their educational experience. The school’s approach emphasizes not only high academic standards but also a nurturing environment. A recent 2022 Ofsted report noted that “staff make sure the highly academic environment of the school is also a nurturing one,” highlighting the school leadership’s focus on developing confident and responsible young individuals.
The success of Queen Elizabeth School is further illustrated by its performance metrics. Approximately 95 percent of pupils received grades ranging from levels seven to nine, reinforcing the school’s reputation for excellence in education.
Recognition of Other Top Schools
The Sunday Times Parent Power league table also acknowledged other notable schools in London. The West London Free School was named Comprehensive School of the Year, while North London Collegiate School received the title of Independent Secondary School of the Year. Additionally, St Paul’s School was recognized as the Independent Secondary School of the Year for Academic Excellence.
As families begin to consider school applications for the upcoming years, the achievements of Queen Elizabeth School in Barnet and other top institutions serve as a benchmark for educational excellence in London. The ongoing commitment to high standards and student support remains crucial in shaping the future of education in the region.
