Choosing the right sixth-form college is a significant decision for students preparing to take their next academic step. These two years shape university prospects and lay the groundwork for future careers. Across England, several colleges consistently stand out – not only for their results but also for the quality of teaching, the depth of subject choice and the level of support they provide.
This guide looks at ten of the best sixth-form colleges in England, based on academic results, university placements and overall student experience.
King's College London Mathematics School – London
Founded in partnership with King's College London, this selective state sixth form offers an exceptional education, with a curriculum that centres on maths, further maths and physics. Located south of the river in Lambeth, the school was inspired by the Kolmogorov Physics and Mathematics School in Moscow, which was established in 1965 by mathematician Andrey Kolmogorov. The college focuses on widening participation in mathematical sciences by supporting young individuals currently under-represented in these fields. Results are consistently among the best in the country (99.5% A*-B grades in 2024), with students benefiting from university-level input and access to academic mentors. A large proportion of students also progress to top universities, including Oxford and Cambridge.
Peter Symonds College – Winchester
As one of the largest sixth-form colleges in England, Peter Symonds offers breadth and quality in equal measure. Celebrating 20 years as an outstanding provider in all areas of Ofsted, the college provides a wide variety of A-level subjects, vocational courses and boarding options that allow students from further afield to benefit from its high standards. Known best for its excellent teaching and inclusive approach, the college maintains a strong record of sending students to Oxbridge and other leading universities, with 738 Peter Symonds students attending one of the 24 research-led Russell Group universities in 2024 alone.
Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Centre – East London
Located in one of London's most diverse boroughs, Newham Collegiate has established itself as one of the capital's leading sixth forms with strong A-level results and a high rate of university offers. The college has pioneered a holistic approach to A-level education, recognising that academic excellence alone is no longer enough in an increasingly competitive world. With only 70% of Russell Group applicants, 16% of Oxbridge hopefuls and just 5% of international Ivy League candidates securing places, the college believes that standing out requires more than strong grades. This programme aims to equip students with relevant industry experience, professional polish and the unspoken etiquette often assumed in private education to ensure they become the most compelling candidates for top universities and careers.
University of Liverpool Mathematics School – Liverpool
Founded in 2020, this specialist sixth form provides a focused education for disadvantaged students with strong math and science abilities across Merseyside. Working in close collaboration with the University of Liverpool, the school offers expert teaching, a rigorous curriculum and tailored academic support. ULMaS ranks high in national performance tables, including being in the top three across the country for progress made by disadvantaged students with many students continuing to study high-prestige STEM degree courses at Russell Group universities.
Hills Road Sixth Form College – Cambridge
Hills Road is one of the country's most established and respected sixth-form colleges. Located in Cambridge, the institute offers a wide range of A-level courses and consistently high results, with a 100% pass rate in 2024. Students benefit from excellent teaching, strong pastoral care and 20 hours of enrichment activities for Year 12 students. Many students go on to Russell Group universities and the college has a long-standing reputation for preparing students for competitive degree courses.
Barton Peveril Sixth Form College – Eastleigh
Located on the outskirts of Eastleigh, Barton Peveril offers a well-balanced sixth-form experience, including over 60 A-level and vocational courses. Complemented by enrichment activities under the Q-XTRA programme, which focuses on health, community, skills and employability, the sixth form shows its versatility. It has been consistently recognised for its excellence, receiving an "Outstanding" rating from Ofsted in 2022 and achieving a 98.9% pass rate in 2024.
London Academy of Excellence – Stratford, East London
Often referred to as the "Eton of the East End," the London Academy of Excellence (LAE) was established in partnership with several top independent schools and has quickly built a reputation for academic excellence. It recently became the first state school to join the prestigious World Leading Schools Association – a milestone that opens doors to exclusive scholarships at elite American universities. Currently, an average of four LAE students each year gain admission to top U.S. institutions, including Harvard and Yale. However, this number is expected to rise significantly following their membership in the association. LAE offers a rigorous A-level programme focused on traditional academic subjects and is renowned for its high standards and outstanding results. The majority of students are from disadvantaged backgrounds and many are the first in their families to attend university, with a large percentage securing places at Oxford, Cambridge and other leading institutions.
Sir John Deane's College – Northwich, Cheshire
Established in 1557 and set in the heart of Cheshire, Sir John Deane's College has a long-standing reputation for excellence, offering more than 30 subjects and proudly ranked amongst the highest-achieving sixth-form colleges in the country. The riverside campus boasts modern facilities, with the college recently unveiling a new £2.2 million learning facility that boasts four classrooms, a dedicated staff room and offices, alongside a large study space. At Sir John Deanes College, countless students progress to higher education, with many securing places at leading Russell Group institutions, elite music conservatoires, top medical schools and Oxford and Cambridge with around one-third of students graduating with First Class Honours.
Woodhouse College – Barnet, North London
Woodhouse is a high-performing sixth-form college in Barnet, with students from 180 schools across North London enrolled. The college has a track record of academic success, particularly in subjects such as maths, the sciences, and humanities, with A*–B pass rates consistently placing it in the top five sixth-form colleges across the country. Each A-level subject includes five hours of lessons per week whilst students participate in a tutorial programme designed to help them develop the skills needed to succeed at university and beyond.
The Sixth Form College Farnborough – Hampshire
This college serves a large and diverse student body, offering a wide selection of A-levels and vocational courses. Exam results are consistently above the national average and the college has well-established links with universities across the UK. The college is proud to have been rated 'Outstanding' in all areas by Ofsted in 2021 and 96% of students say they would recommend the college to future applicants. Students also benefit from exceptional support, including a dedicated Personal Tutor, on-site nursing provision and access to a specialist counselling team.
For students preparing to take their next academic step, the importance of choosing the right sixth-form college can't be overstated – and as this guide highlights, there's no shortage of options across England. From specialist institutions with world-class maths programmes to large, inclusive colleges offering a broad curriculum and exceptional support, each of the colleges exemplifies what it means to deliver academic excellence and an enriching student experience.
