London · SW13 9JT
AAB+ A-level
78.8%
9–7 GCSE
93.5%
Day fees
£31k
Inspection
Not yet inspected
St Paul's School is one of England's most academically prestigious boys' schools, consistently ranking among the top performers nationally at A-level and producing a remarkable proportion of Oxbridge entrants each year. Founded in 1509 by Dean John Colet and now located in a purpose-built riverside campus in Barnes, it combines an intellectually fierce culture with outstanding co-curricular breadth. The school attracts highly able boys from across London and internationally, rewarding genuine curiosity and intellectual ambition over mere diligence. Its ethos is scholarly rather than sporty, with the life of the mind at the centre of everything.
Who thrives here
Highly intelligent, self-motivated boys who relish academic challenge, enjoy debating ideas and can hold their own in a fast-paced, intellectually competitive environment. Boys with eclectic interests — a mathematician who also plays in a string quartet, or a classicist who rows — tend to thrive here.
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
Lonsdale Road, Barnes
London
SW13 9JT
Nearest stations
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Day fees at St Paul's School are approximately £31,149 per year (2024/25). Boarding fees are higher.
St Paul's School admits pupils at 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
At St Paul's School, 78.8% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 93.5% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
St Paul's School offers boarding as well as day places.
Frequently praised
✓Outstanding teaching quality — teachers described as inspirational and genuinely expert in their fields
✓Boys emerge intellectually confident, curious and very well prepared for university and beyond
✓Exceptional breadth of opportunity — sport, music, drama, STEM all at very high levels alongside elite academics
✓Peer group of equally able, interesting boys — friendships described as intellectually stimulating as well as social
✓Generous bursary programme genuinely opens the school to talented boys from all backgrounds
Common concerns
!Academic pressure is high and can be stressful — some parents feel pastoral support could be stronger relative to the academic intensity
!The school's size (1500+ boys) can make it feel impersonal, particularly for quieter or less self-sufficient boys
!Boys who are not strongly academically motivated or who need more structure can struggle to find their footing
!Travel logistics for south-west London and beyond can be demanding given the Barnes location