Find schools
in England
England is home to some of the world's most prestigious schools — from Eton and Harrow to leading IB World Schools in London. Whether you're looking for a top independent school, an international curriculum or a free state school, we've got you covered.
Browse by school type
British independent, IB, boarding and free state schools across England
Browse by city
Find schools near where you're planning to live
England's most school-dense city — with international schools, elite independents, IB World Schools and free state schools. The top destination for expat families relocating to England.
Schools in England for Expat Families
If you are moving to England with children, it helps to understand the main school options available before you apply. The most common choices are state-funded schools, private schools, and international schools. Each type works differently, so families should think about their child's needs, budget, language, and long-term plans.
State-funded schools
Most children in England attend state-funded schools, which do not charge tuition fees. This includes community schools, academies, and free schools, although state boarding schools may charge for boarding costs.
Many state-funded schools follow the national curriculum, but academies and free schools have more flexibility. Families should check a school's most recent Ofsted report, performance data, and admissions details before applying.
Private schools
Private schools, also called independent schools, charge fees and manage their own admissions. Many ask children to take an entrance exam or assessment before offering a place.
Some may also ask for an interview, a school report, or references — so it is always important to check each school's admissions process carefully. England's independent schools are world-renowned, from Eton and Harrow to Winchester and Marlborough.
International schools
International schools are often chosen by families moving to England from abroad. These schools may follow the International Baccalaureate, an American curriculum, or another international system.
They can be a good fit for families who may move again in the future or who want a more internationally portable style of education. ACS International, TASIS England and Marymount London are among the most popular choices.
Faith schools & special education
Some children in England attend faith schools — state-funded schools with a religious character, linked to a church, mosque, synagogue, or another faith group. These are still free to attend.
England also has special schools for children with higher levels of additional need, and many children receive SEN support in mainstream schools. Some children may have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan.
Support for children learning English
If your child does not speak English yet, schools in England can still support them. The term commonly used is English as an Additional Language (EAL), and official guidance encourages schools and early years settings to support multilingual children in ways that do not depend only on their English ability. Children are also often encouraged to continue using their home language alongside English.
Help choosing a school in England
Every school is different, so it is important to check the admissions policy, deadlines, inspection reports, ethos, and support on offer before applying. For families moving from abroad, this can feel overwhelming — especially when school decisions are happening at the same time as housing, paperwork, and relocation planning.
That is where ExpatSchoolFinder can help. We help families explore state-funded schools, private schools, and international schools in England, so you can better understand what may suit your child and your plans.
Free resources
We share free guides on school systems, family-friendly areas, children's activities, and everyday life after the move to England.
Join our WhatsApp group
Connect with other families, ask practical questions, and get support from parents going through a similar move to England.
Whether you want to do everything yourself with our resources, or you'd like more hands-on support with schools, relocation, and settling in — ExpatSchoolFinder is here to help make your move to England simpler.
The world's most
famous schools
England is home to the most famous boarding schools on earth — institutions that have shaped history for over 600 years. From Eton and Harrow to Winchester and Marlborough, these schools offer education at its most storied.
Eton College
The world's most famous school, founded by King Henry VI in 1440. Full boarding for 1,300 boys aged 13–18. Alumni include 20 British Prime Ministers, countless world leaders and cultural figures. Fees: £48,000/yr.
Harrow School
Historic hilltop campus in North London. Alumni include Churchill, Byron and Nehru. Full boarding for 830 boys. Ages 13–18.
Winchester College
One of England's oldest schools, founded 1382. Exceptional academic results and a remarkable tradition of intellectual excellence. Ages 13–18.
Brighton College
Named Independent School of the Decade by The Sunday Times. Co-educational boarding and day school. Ages 3–18.
More notable boarding schools
View all 13 →Featured English schools
A selection of notable schools across England
ACS Cobham International School
The American School in London
Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle
Dwight School London
International School of London
North London Collegiate School
Free schools in England — what expat families need to know
England's state school system is free for all residents, including expat families. This includes academy schools, free schools and grammar schools. Grammar schools are selective and free — entry is by the 11+ exam. Many are among the top-performing schools in England.
3 free schools are listed in our directory. For personalised advice on state school catchment areas and grammar school entry, contact our school advisors.
England's school system explained
Every school type, what it costs, who it's for — and how to get in. Pick a category to explore.
Free State Schools in England
England's state school system is free for all residents. Many state schools — particularly grammar schools and academies — deliver outstanding academic results.
- Free for all residents — no fees
- Grammar schools: selective, free, entry by 11+ exam
- Academy schools and free schools: strong alternatives in cities
- Catchment areas apply for primary schools — know yours before renting
- Teaching in English — no language barrier for English-speaking families
- Ofsted ratings help identify the best schools in your area
Our advisors know every school type in England — from free state schools to elite boarding. We'll map the right options for your child's age and your timeline.
Holiday camps in England
Summer camps, sports camps, language camps and multi-activity programmes for expat kids during school holidays.
London Multi-Activity Summer Camp
Multi-activityThe most popular English summer camp for expat families in London. Sports, arts, swimming and outdoor activities across multiple London locations.
Eton Summer School
Academic + SportsPrestigious summer school on the Eton College campus. Academic enrichment, sports and cultural activities in one of England's most iconic school settings.
Cornish Surf & Adventure Camp
Surf & AdventureSurfing, coasteering, kayaking and beach activities on the stunning Cornish coast. Qualified instructors, English-speaking, residential option available.
Oxford Academic Summer Camp
AcademicAcademic enrichment camps on the Oxford University campus. Debate, science, creative writing and university preparation in the world's most famous university city.
Choose the level of support you need
From a £29.99 DIY download pack to full concierge service — we have an option for every family and every budget.
Country Download Pack
A step-by-step downloadable guide to the school system in this country. Everything you need to understand your options, know the deadlines, and start your application — at your own pace.
- Full school system overview (state, bilingual, private, international)
- Application timeline & key deadlines
- Document checklist for your situation
- Catchment area explainer
- School type comparison table
- Top questions to ask schools
- Personalised advice
- Direct support
- Portal guidance
Starter Pack
A personalised written report delivered within 48 hours. Based on your destination country and your child's age, we map out every school option — state, bilingual, private, and international — with catchment areas, application deadlines, and the documents you'll need.
- Personalised school options report
- State & bilingual schools mapped to your area
- Private & international school shortlist
- Catchment area overview
- Application deadline calendar
- Document checklist for your situation
- Active application support
- Portal guidance
- Direct school contact
Guided Application
We actively guide you through the entire application process. From checking your catchment area before you sign your rental contract, to walking you through the local school portal step by step, to confirming everything is submitted correctly.
- Everything in Starter Pack
- Catchment area check before you sign your lease
- Personalised document checklist
- Step-by-step school portal guidance
- Equivalency process support
- Follow-up call to confirm submission
- Email support throughout
- Direct school contact on your behalf
- Application status tracking
Full Concierge
We handle everything. You focus on your move. We contact schools directly on your behalf, track your application status, advise on backup options if your first choice is full, and stay on call until your child has a confirmed place.
- Everything in Guided Application
- We contact schools directly on your behalf
- Application status tracking
- Backup school strategy if first choice is full
- Priority email & WhatsApp support
- On-call through the full process
- Confirmed place — we don't stop until it's done
All prices are per family, not per child. Compare all services →
Not sure where to start?
Our school advisors help families navigate England's school landscape — from London's international schools to the great boarding schools of the English countryside.
Talk to a School Advisor →