The Swedish School
London · SW13 9JS
The Swedish School is a distinctive all-through international school in Barnes, London, delivering Swedish national curriculum within a British context. It serves a tight-knit community of approximately 230 pupils from age 2 through upper secondary (Gymnasium), with particular strength in bilingual education and Scandinavian pedagogical values. The school emphasises creativity, empathy, and global citizenship, positioning London itself as a learning resource. It offers boarding at sixth form level, attracting students seeking an alternative to traditional British independent schooling.
- →Swedish curriculum combined with British context and English-medium instruction
- →Genuine all-through continuity from nursery to post-16, with small cohorts and high staff familiarity
- →Scandinavian emphasis on pupil wellbeing, play-based early years, and intrinsic motivation over pressure
- →Multilingual environment and international outlook attractive to expat and globally-minded UK families
- →Boarding option for sixth form with focus on personal development and independence
Who thrives here
Families valuing progressive pedagogy, multilingualism, and wellbeing over conventional academic competition; expat children maintaining Swedish identity; pupils thriving in smaller, tight-knit communities; those seeking alternatives to high-pressure grammar and independent schooling.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
82 Lonsdale Road
London
SW13 9JS
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at The Swedish School?
Day fees at The Swedish School are approximately £13,500 per year (2024/25).
How do you get into The Swedish School?
The Swedish School admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
Is The Swedish School a boarding school?
The Swedish School offers boarding as well as day places.
What is The Swedish School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated The Swedish School “Outstanding” (2023).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Genuinely caring, small community where children are known as individuals
✓Wellbeing-first approach without sacrificing academic rigour
✓Authentic bilingual education and Swedish cultural identity maintained
✓Strong pastoral support and approachability of staff
✓Alternative to high-pressure London independent schools while maintaining academic standards
Common concerns
!Not yet Ofsted-inspected; limited external validation of quality
!Small size may constrain breadth of facilities and specialist teaching
!Niche curriculum may complicate transfer to UK sixth form or university if required
!Limited public information on destinations and exam results
!Boarding provision at sixth form may feel unfamiliar to UK families used to day school models