Top 10 Best Schools in Greenwich

Finding the Right School in Greenwich

Greenwich is one of the most family-friendly corners of London. With its World Heritage riverside, the green expanse of Greenwich Park and Blackheath, and fast transport links via the DLR, Jubilee line and Elizabeth line at Woolwich, the borough has become a magnet for young families. That popularity has put a spotlight on local schools, and parents today are asking sharper questions about academic outcomes, wellbeing support, extracurricular breadth and preparation for life beyond the classroom.

The Royal Borough of Greenwich offers a varied education landscape. There are long-established independent schools with centuries of history, faith schools rooted in strong community values, and modern academies that have transformed their results through investment and focused leadership. Whether you live in Blackheath, Eltham, Charlton, Woolwich or on the fast-growing Greenwich Peninsula, there is a school to match your child's personality and ambitions.

How We Selected These Schools

Our shortlist reflects a balance of factors rather than a single league table. We considered academic progress and exam outcomes, the quality of pastoral care, breadth of the curriculum, enrichment opportunities such as music, sport and STEM clubs, reputation among local families, and how well each school prepares students for sixth form, university and apprenticeships. We have included both state and independent options to reflect the real choices Greenwich parents make.

The Top 10 Schools in Greenwich

1. Eltham College

Eltham College is an independent co-educational day school set in extensive grounds in Mottingham, on the southern edge of the borough. It is widely respected for strong academic results, a superb music tradition and an impressive sports programme. Smaller class sizes allow teachers to stretch able pupils, while an active co-curricular calendar of drama, debating and outdoor education builds confidence and leadership.

2. Blackheath High School

Part of the Girls' Day School Trust, Blackheath High School has a long history of championing girls' education. The school is known for an ambitious academic culture paired with a warm, supportive atmosphere. Its investment in science, technology and creative arts facilities, together with a strong focus on wellbeing and leadership, makes it a top choice for families seeking a girls' independent education near the heath.

3. St Ursula's Convent School

St Ursula's is a Catholic secondary school for girls in the heart of Greenwich. It combines a clear faith-based ethos with high expectations, and many families value its calm, disciplined environment. The school places emphasis on character, service and academic progress, and its compact size helps staff know every student well and spot when someone needs extra support.

4. The John Roan School

With roots stretching back to the seventeenth century, The John Roan School is one of the oldest schools in the area. Today it is a co-educational secondary with a sixth form, offering a broad curriculum and a diverse, vibrant student community. Its location close to Westcombe Park and Blackheath makes it a convenient option for families across central Greenwich.

5. Thomas Tallis School

Based in Kidbrooke, Thomas Tallis School is admired for its creative and inclusive approach to learning. The school has a strong reputation for performing arts, media and design, and its modern building supports collaborative, project-based teaching. A large and well-regarded sixth form gives students a wide range of A level and vocational pathways.

6. Harris Academy Greenwich

Harris Academy Greenwich in Eltham benefits from belonging to one of London's most established academy trusts. Clear behaviour expectations, data-informed teaching and a focus on raising aspiration have helped the academy build a solid reputation. Students have access to trust-wide enrichment, leadership programmes and strong careers guidance.

7. St Thomas More Catholic School

St Thomas More in Eltham is a popular Catholic comprehensive known for its supportive community and consistent focus on progress. The school combines faith formation with a broad curriculum and a growing range of clubs and trips. Families often highlight the caring approach of staff and the way the school nurtures confidence in younger students.

8. Plumstead Manor School

Plumstead Manor is a large comprehensive serving the east of the borough. It offers a broad curriculum, a mixed sixth form and a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities in sport, music and the arts. The school has invested in modern facilities and places strong emphasis on inclusion and student voice.

9. Woolwich Polytechnic School

Carrying a name with deep historical links to technical education in Woolwich, this school has a strong focus on STEM, discipline and high aspirations. It runs separate provision for boys and girls in parts of the school alongside a co-educational sixth form. Its growing reputation reflects the regeneration energy of Woolwich itself.

10. Riverston School

Riverston is an independent school on the Greenwich and Lewisham border offering education from nursery through to secondary. Small classes, personalised learning plans and a nurturing culture make it particularly attractive for children who thrive with individual attention. The school also has well-developed support for pupils with additional learning needs.

Trends Shaping Schools in Greenwich

Several trends are reshaping education across the borough. Schools are placing far greater emphasis on mental health and wellbeing, with dedicated counsellors and mentoring schemes becoming standard. Digital learning has matured, with many schools blending classroom teaching and online platforms for homework and revision. STEM partnerships with local employers and universities, including the University of Greenwich, are giving students real-world exposure. Rapid housing growth on the Peninsula, in Kidbrooke and at Royal Arsenal Riverside is also increasing demand for school places, making early research more important than ever.

Tips for Choosing a School

Visit open days and, where possible, see the school during a normal working day. Ask about class sizes, homework expectations, how the school supports both high achievers and those who need help, and what enrichment is included. Check admission criteria and catchment patterns carefully, as faith schools and popular academies can have specific requirements. Speak to current parents and consider the daily commute, especially if your child will be travelling independently.

Final Thoughts

The best school is the one where your child feels safe, challenged and inspired. Greenwich offers an impressive range of choices, from historic independents to ambitious state academies, each with its own character. Use this list as a starting point, visit widely and trust your instincts about where your child will flourish.