The Big 9 Schools in England: History, Rankings, and Academic Prestige

In England, the term “Big 9 schools” refers to a group of elite and historic educational institutions recognized for their tradition, academic excellence, and influence on British society. These schools have produced prime ministers, Nobel laureates, authors, scientists, and global leaders.

This article explores the Big 9 schools in England, detailing their origins, unique features, academic standards, and why they remain among the most prestigious schools in the UK today. Whether you’re a parent seeking the best education for your child or simply fascinated by elite British institutions, this guide offers everything you need to know.

1. What Are the “Big 9” Public Schools in England?

Despite the name, these are not public schools in the American sense. In the UK, a “public school” refers to a fee-charging independent school, usually boarding-based and historically male-only.

The “Big 9” are a select group of these prestigious institutions that were formally recognized in the 19th century for their elite status and were placed under regulation by the Public Schools Act of 1868, which was based on the findings of the Clarendon Commission.

2. The Clarendon Commission and the Public Schools Act 1868

In the 1860s, concerns were raised about the administration and accessibility of England’s top schools. This led to the formation of the Clarendon Commission in 1861 to investigate nine specific schools considered the most influential at the time.

As a result, the Public Schools Act of 1868 placed some of these schools under government regulation while acknowledging their unique role in shaping Britain’s elite.

3. List of the Big 9 Schools in England

Here are the Big 9 schools as recognized by the Clarendon Commission and the Public Schools Act:

1. Eton College

2. Harrow School

3. Rugby School

4. Winchester College

5. Westminster School

6. Shrewsbury School

7. Charterhouse School

8. St Paul’s School

9. Merchant Taylors’ School

The first seven were placed under the Public Schools Act 1868, while the last two remained under independent governance but were still part of the original Clarendon Commission report.

4. Detailed Profiles of Each School

1. Eton College

• Founded: 1440 by King Henry VI

• Location: Windsor, Berkshire

• Notable Alumni: Prince William, Prince Harry, Boris Johnson, George Orwell

• Specialty: Elite boarding, strong classical education, emphasis on leadership

2. Harrow School

• Founded: 1572

• Location: Harrow on the Hill, London

• Notable Alumni: Winston Churchill, Benedict Cumberbatch

• Specialty: Formal traditions, uniforms, house rivalries, arts and drama

3. Rugby School

• Founded: 1567

• Location: Rugby, Warwickshire

• Notable Alumni: Thomas Arnold (headmaster), Lewis Carroll

• Specialty: Origin of Rugby football, emphasis on pastoral care

4. Winchester College

• Founded: 1382

• Location: Winchester, Hampshire

• Notable Alumni: Rishi Sunak, Antony Beevor

• Specialty: Focus on academic rigour, especially in humanities

5. Westminster School

• Founded: 1179

• Location: Central London

• Notable Alumni: Nick Clegg, Helena Bonham Carter

• Specialty: Proximity to Westminster Abbey, exceptional academic results

6. Shrewsbury School

• Founded: 1552

• Location: Shrewsbury, Shropshire

• Notable Alumni: Charles Darwin, Michael Palin

• Specialty: Science education, extensive grounds, co-educational since 2014

7. Charterhouse School

• Founded: 1611

• Location: Godalming, Surrey

• Notable Alumni: Robert Baden-Powell, William Makepeace Thackeray

• Specialty: Modern approach with a strong heritage, moved to co-ed in Sixth Form

8. St Paul’s School

• Founded: 1509

• Location: London

• Notable Alumni: John Milton, George Osborne

• Specialty: Day school, very academic, no uniform, strong STEM programs

9. Merchant Taylors’ School

• Founded: 1561

• Location: Northwood, London

• Notable Alumni: Lancelot Andrewes, Sir James Jeans

• Specialty: Selective boys’ day school with a strong academic reputation

5. Admission Requirements and Fees

Most Big 9 schools require early applications — sometimes as early as age 10. The process typically includes:

• Entrance exams (e.g., Common Entrance or school-specific tests)

• Interviews

• References from current schools

• Sometimes boarding assessments

Approximate Annual Fees (2025):

Note: Scholarships and bursaries are available at all institutions for talented students who need financial support.

6. Influence on British Culture and Government

These schools have been the breeding ground for:

• 20+ British Prime Ministers

• Multiple Nobel Laureates

• Senior military officials, diplomats, and scientists

• Writers, actors, and entrepreneurs

Their alumni networks often play a significant role in public life, policy-making, and international affairs.

7. Modern Reputation and Criticisms

While the Big 9 schools still symbolize prestige and academic excellence, they are also subject to criticisms:

Pros:

• World-class facilities

• Dedicated faculty and academic rigour

• Emphasis on leadership and extracurriculars

Cons:

• High tuition and exclusivity

• Allegations of reinforcing social inequality

• Limited diversity (though improving)

Efforts are being made to broaden access through financial aid and outreach programs, especially in urban areas.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are the Big 9 schools only for boys?

Historically yes, but now many are co-educational or allow girls in Sixth Form (e.g., Westminster, Charterhouse, Shrewsbury).

2. Are these schools better than grammar schools?

They generally have greater resources and networks, but grammar schools can also offer excellent academic results, especially for high-achieving students.

3. Can international students apply?

Yes. Many of these schools welcome international students and offer English language support.

4. What exams are required to enter?

Common Entrance exams, interviews, and some schools now use ISEB Pre-tests.

5. Are scholarships available?

Yes. Most offer merit-based and need-based scholarships, though competition is high.

Conclusion

The Big 9 schools in England are more than just old institutions — they are cultural landmarks that continue to shape British education and global leadership. With their unique traditions, academic prestige, and elite status, these schools offer unparalleled opportunities to students from around the world.

However, prestige comes with a price — both financial and cultural. For families considering these schools, understanding their history, values, and admission process is essential to making an informed decision.