Top 10 schools in the Royal London Borough of Richmond (2025 Update)
Educational and Fun Activities
Written by Gregg Payne
09 August 2024
🕓 4 min
Richmond upon Thames is known not just for its scenic parks and riverside charm but also for its exceptional schools. Families across London and beyond are drawn to the borough’s strong educational reputation, with primary schools that consistently deliver excellence in academics, creativity, and personal development.
In this 2025 update, we highlight ten of Richmond’s most highly regarded primary schools. These selections reflect a balance of academic achievement, supportive environments, community spirit, and inspiring extracurricular options. Whether you’re seeking a values-driven curriculum, a nurturing independent school, or a vibrant state school with exceptional teaching, Richmond offers something for every family.
Each school in this list represents the borough’s dedication to nurturing confident, curious, and capable learners. Read on to discover the best options for your child’s foundational years in one of London’s most family-friendly and education-focused communities.
1. Sheen Mount Primary School
Sheen Mount Primary School, located in East Sheen, consistently ranks as one of the top-performing schools in Richmond. Known for its high academic standards and inclusive ethos, the school creates a warm, supportive environment where children are encouraged to thrive.
Academically, Sheen Mount excels in English, maths, and science, with consistently strong SATs results and a curriculum designed to stretch and engage every pupil. The school also places a strong emphasis on personal development, encouraging kindness, resilience, and collaboration.
Beyond the classroom, pupils benefit from a wide range of enrichment activities — from music, chess, and art clubs to active sports programmes and drama productions. Parents praise the school’s clear communication, approachable leadership, and strong community feel.
With its commitment to excellence in academics, wellbeing, and creativity, Sheen Mount remains a flagship school within the borough and a top choice for families seeking a nurturing, high-achieving start to primary education.
2. The Vineyard School
The Vineyard School, situated in the heart of Richmond town centre, is celebrated for its balance of academic excellence and holistic education. This large, diverse school fosters a culture of ambition and kindness, ensuring that every child feels valued and supported.
The curriculum is broad and inspiring, blending core subjects with creativity, physical development, and emotional literacy. Pupils participate in music ensembles, coding projects, drama workshops, and sports tournaments — gaining confidence and life skills beyond the classroom.
The Vineyard’s leadership team is known for its proactive, child-centred approach. Staff collaborate closely with families to meet pupils’ needs and maintain a vibrant, inclusive learning environment. Regular school events and community involvement further strengthen the sense of belonging.
With consistently strong academic outcomes and a well-rounded enrichment offer, The Vineyard continues to be one of Richmond’s most popular schools — especially among families looking for an education that values the whole child.
3. Thomson House School
Thomson House School in Mortlake is a relatively new addition to Richmond’s educational landscape but has rapidly earned a reputation for excellence. Opened in 2013, it blends modern teaching techniques with strong academic standards, making it a standout choice for local families.
The school is small and close-knit, offering a high staff-to-pupil ratio that allows for personalised learning. Students benefit from rich, creative teaching across subjects — with inquiry-led science, project-based learning, and cross-curricular arts sessions helping to develop critical thinking and confidence.
Thomson House emphasises values such as curiosity, empathy, and perseverance. Children are encouraged to explore their potential while learning in an environment that promotes collaboration and respect.
With its innovative approach, engaged parent body, and focus on both academic and personal growth, Thomson House School continues to grow in popularity and prestige within the Royal Borough of Richmond.
4. Barnes Primary School
Barnes Primary School is a highly sought-after school in Richmond, known for its excellent academic performance and creative, inclusive culture. Situated in one of the borough’s most picturesque neighbourhoods, the school provides a vibrant and forward-thinking learning environment.
Barnes delivers a curriculum that is both challenging and engaging. Core subjects are taught with depth and clarity, while students are also encouraged to explore creative writing, music, outdoor learning, and foreign languages. The result is a well-rounded education that stretches children academically while nurturing their personal growth.
One of the school’s standout features is its emphasis on environmental learning. Students regularly participate in gardening, ecology workshops, and sustainability projects that help them understand their role in caring for the planet.
With committed leadership, strong community links, and a focus on collaboration and respect, Barnes Primary continues to be a flagship school for Richmond — blending tradition with innovation in all the best ways.
5. Marshgate Primary School
Marshgate Primary School is a consistently top-performing school in Richmond, admired for its academic excellence and forward-thinking curriculum. Located near Richmond town centre, the school provides a dynamic learning environment where innovation and high expectations go hand in hand.
Marshgate’s teaching approach blends rigour with creativity. Pupils are challenged to think critically, collaborate effectively, and apply knowledge across subjects. The school offers a diverse mix of activities — from science fairs and coding challenges to orchestra rehearsals and theatrical productions.
Physical education and mental wellbeing are also priorities at Marshgate. Regular mindfulness sessions, outdoor games, and active play are integrated into the school day to support children’s overall development.
With a dedicated staff team, supportive parent community, and a track record of outstanding results, Marshgate Primary School continues to lead by example — offering a well-rounded, inspiring education that prepares children for both academic and personal success.
6. Kew College
Kew College is an independent co-educational primary school that delivers a personalised and academically ambitious education in the heart of Kew. The school is known for small class sizes, high levels of individual attention, and an ethos that encourages curiosity, kindness, and self-belief.
The curriculum is broad, covering all core academic areas as well as music, drama, languages, and technology. Pupils benefit from tailored learning strategies that adapt to their strengths and challenges, helping them build confidence and achieve their personal best.
Kew College places strong emphasis on pastoral care. Every child is known and supported, creating a warm, nurturing atmosphere where students feel safe and ready to learn. The school also has a robust extracurricular programme that includes sports, clubs, and enrichment trips.
For families seeking a private education that balances academic rigour with emotional support and opportunity for growth, Kew College remains a trusted and top-rated choice in Richmond.
7. Orleans Primary School
Orleans Primary School, located near Twickenham, is a popular and inclusive community school that blends academic ambition with creativity and care. Known for its engaging curriculum and strong pastoral support, Orleans provides a welcoming environment where every child is encouraged to shine.
The school’s curriculum is broad and dynamic. Alongside core subjects like maths and literacy, pupils enjoy regular art, drama, music, and outdoor learning experiences. These opportunities help build creativity, resilience, and collaboration from an early age.
The Orleans staff team is highly regarded for its nurturing approach and commitment to helping every child succeed. SEN support is thoughtfully embedded, and wellbeing initiatives are woven into the school day through mindfulness, mentoring, and peer support.
With a vibrant mix of academic achievement, artistic exploration, and emotional intelligence, Orleans Primary is a top choice for Richmond families who value whole-child education rooted in community spirit and inclusion.
8. The Russell Primary School
The Russell Primary School in Ham is a small, community-focused school known for its nurturing atmosphere and individualised approach to education. With a strong commitment to both academic excellence and pupil wellbeing, The Russell provides a welcoming environment where every child is supported to succeed.
The school’s curriculum is designed to promote curiosity, independence, and a love of learning. Children engage in inquiry-based lessons across subjects, and there is a particular emphasis on early reading, maths fluency, and science investigation. Creative subjects like art and drama are also celebrated.
Staff at The Russell build close relationships with families and ensure pupils feel seen and valued. The school’s size allows for personalised learning pathways and timely support for all abilities, including a strong SEND provision.
With its intimate setting, inclusive ethos, and a well-rounded learning approach, The Russell Primary continues to be a beloved and reliable option for families in the Richmond area.
9. St Mary’s Church of England Primary School
St Mary’s Church of England Primary School in Twickenham is a high-performing, faith-based school offering a supportive, values-led education grounded in Christian principles. With strong academic outcomes and a well-rounded curriculum, St Mary’s continues to be a trusted choice for families seeking excellence and care.
The school provides a rich, balanced education across academic and creative subjects. Pupils explore literacy, maths, science, and humanities, while also participating in art, music, PE, and RE. Worship assemblies, community service, and moral education promote empathy and global citizenship.
St Mary’s places great emphasis on character development and inclusion. Staff work closely with families to nurture each child’s strengths and confidence. The school is also known for its pastoral support, SEN provision, and a welcoming, respectful culture.
With its strong leadership, holistic approach, and community partnerships, St Mary’s Primary continues to set a high standard for both faith-based and mainstream primary education in Richmond.
10. Queen’s Church of England Primary School
Queen’s C of E Primary School in Kew is a well-respected institution that balances academic rigour with spiritual and creative development. Known for its strong sense of community and excellent pastoral care, the school provides a calm, nurturing space where children can flourish.
Academically, Queen’s achieves excellent results across core subjects while also celebrating a wide-ranging curriculum that includes languages, arts, music, and sports. Students regularly participate in creative projects, performances, and competitive events that showcase their talents and build confidence.
Rooted in Christian values, the school fosters empathy, inclusivity, and moral reflection. Assemblies, peer mentoring, and community engagement initiatives are used to support spiritual growth and mutual respect.
Parents appreciate Queen’s clear communication, approachable leadership, and commitment to whole-child education. With its blend of strong academics, faith-based principles, and rich enrichment offerings, Queen’s C of E Primary is a cornerstone of the Richmond education landscape.
Final Thoughts
The Royal Borough of Richmond offers some of the best primary education options in London, with schools that cater to academic achievement, creativity, pastoral care, and character development. From community-focused state schools to independent and faith-based institutions, Richmond continues to stand out for the quality and variety of its education landscape.
Each school on this list offers something special — whether it’s a strong values-based ethos, a nurturing learning environment, or an emphasis on creativity and innovation. For parents choosing where to send their child, Richmond offers assurance that excellence comes in many forms.
To support and extend your child’s learning beyond the classroom, The Science of Sound offers dynamic science workshops, after-school clubs, and holiday camps across Richmond. These experiences inspire a love of STEM through sound-powered experiments, hands-on exploration, and child-led discovery.
🔬 Visit scienceofsound.co.uk to find your next event — and bring science to life through creativity and curiosity.
