There is a broad range of top international schools in London, thanks to the city's cosmopolitan nature. London also has bilingual schools that teach in languages such as French and German, as well as English.

Although many expat families in London choose to make use of the free state education, or send their children to one of the excellent private schools in the city, international schools are often the ideal choice for globally mobile families. International schools in London allow expat children to continue with a familiar education system and maintain proficiency in their mother tongue. Many top international schools provide language programmes to maintain home language proficiency or help non-English-speaking children adapt.

The most commonly offered curricula in London's international schools include the British, American and International Baccalaureate programmes. Some international schools will offer German, Japanese and French curricula. Additionally, expat parents will also need to consider the school's facilities, programmes and extra-curricular offerings to ensure the school of their choice is best suited to their children's needs. The top international schools will typically offer activities such as sports, art, technology and even rock climbing. 

Expat parents will have many factors to consider when choosing an international school in London. Proximity to public transport or their place of work or residence will be chief among them. Fortunately for expats, the international schools in London are sprinkled throughout the city, particularly in the West, North and East London areas and suburbs.

Most international schools in London welcome children of all nationalities. Staff at the best international schools are highly qualified and equipped to serve the unique needs of the expat community.

Below is a list of some of the best international schools in London.

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International schools in London

ICS London International School

Situated in the heart of London, ICS London (International Community School) boasts a diverse range of students from more than 70 different countries. As a member of the global network of Globeducate schools, ICS is well-positioned to offer a truly international education in a cosmopolitan city such as London. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 3 to 18

ACS International School

ACS has three campuses, all based just outside London. Each school has excellent facilities for sports and extra-curricular activities. There is an emphasis on interactive learning through the use of modern technology. ACS international schools have special programmes that address issues associated with a highly mobile expat population, putting them among the top international schools in London. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate and American
Ages: 2 to 18

American School in London

This is a popular international school in London boasting top-class facilities for sports and art. ASL strives to develop the intellect and character of each student by providing 'an outstanding American education with a global perspective'. The school prides itself on driving academic success by celebrating innovation and individuality. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American
Ages: 4 to 18

Deutsche Schule London

Deutsche Schule London strives to ease the social integration of German students into London while allowing them to maintain a connection to their language and culture. There are ample opportunities for students to get involved in extra-curricular activities such as the arts, music, theatre and sports while plugging into their international and local communities. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: German and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18

International School of London

The International School of London strongly promotes mother-tongue literacy with home-language lessons two to three times a week. More than 20 languages are included in this programme to allow students to embrace their native culture while integrating into an international community. There is additional specialised support for students whose first language is not English, making the International School of London one of the top and most inclusive international schools in the city. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18

This small school of just 127 pupils caters for English-speaking and French-speaking children and provides dual-language learning. The school welcomes international pupils from all over the world. Set in a beautifully restored Victorian castle in Fulham, L'Ecole des Petits is a unique school that offers an exceptional standard of international education. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French and British (English National Curriculum)
Ages: 3 to 6

L'Ecole de Battersea

The sister school of L'Ecole des Petits, L'Ecole de Battersea opened in 2005 in London to offer the French curriculum with English elements to its approximately 250 pupils. The school offers an outstanding, well-rounded international education that develops truly global citizens. There is a wide variety of extra-curricular activities offered, including fencing, basketball, sewing, drama and more. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French
Ages: 3 to 11

Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle

Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle has been established for more than 100 years and has achieved several accolades, including being named one of the top 50 schools in Britain. This international school places a strong emphasis on academics, the performing arts and extracurricular activities. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French and British (Cambridge IGCSE and A-levels)
Ages: 3 to 18

Southbank International School

One of the top international schools in London, Southbank International School has three campuses in Hampstead, Kensington and Westminster. Southbank is particularly popular among London's expat community and follows the IB curriculum with a learning style based on group work, communication and independent field research. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 2 to 18

TASIS The American School in England

Established in 1976, TASIS The American School in England is a leading co-educational, independent day and boarding school. The high-quality academic offerings include Advanced Placement (AP) courses developed by the American College Board and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American (including Advanced Placement) and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18