Scotland’s top 11 secondary schools 2025 named in new league table – see full list

A Glasgow secondary school has been named the best in Scotland, according to the Sunday Times’ annual league table. Jordanhill School has been recognised as Scotland’s State Secondary School of the Year and State Secondary School of Academic Excellence in the list published on Friday, December 6.

The school has consistently topped the Sunday Times league tables for academic performance in Scotland for the past seven years. Jordanhill School in the west end of Glasgow stands out due to its variety of extracurricular activities, with over a third of senior pupils participating. These activities include instrument lessons, music ensembles, Saturday morning sports clubs for football, netball, hockey, rugby, and a before-school running club.

John Anderson, the school’s rector, attributes Jordanhill’s success to fostering a strong work ethic and resilience among its pupils. The Sunday Times’ league table, which has been running for 32 years, ranks schools based on their students’ performance in National 5s and Higher exams. The guide includes a searchable national database of over 2,000 schools sorted by name, local authority, town, and postcode.

Nine out of the top ten state schools in Scotland are located in Greater Glasgow, as per the Sunday Times’ league table. The top 10 schools for 2024 are:
1. Jordanhill School – Glasgow
2. Bearsden Academy – Bearsden
3. Mearns Castle High School – Glasgow
4. Boroughmuir High School – Edinburgh
5. St Ninian’s High School – Giffnock
6. Woodfarm High School – Glasgow
7. Williamwood High School – Glasgow
8. Boclair Academy – Bearsden
9. Glasgow Gaelic School – Glasgow
10. Douglas Academy – Milngavie
11. Linlithgow Academy – Linlithgow

Helen Davies, Editor of Parent Power, commended the top schools for not just their academic excellence but also for preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century. She highlighted the innovative and impactful ways in which passionate teachers are shaping students for success.

As education continues to face challenges such as teacher shortages and rising student mental health issues, the dedication of teachers and the achievements of top schools are beacons of inspiration. Celebrating academic success and nurturing well-rounded individuals are vital aspects of the education system.

In conclusion, the recognition of Jordanhill School and the other top schools in Scotland serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of both educators and students in achieving academic excellence and holistic development. It underscores the importance of extracurricular activities and fostering a supportive environment for students to thrive and succeed. The focus on resilience, innovation, and preparing students for the future ensures that Scotland’s education system remains at the forefront of providing quality education and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.