Is it Possible to Name the Best School in the World?

Few topics in education spark as much debate as naming the “best” school in the world. Personal biases, cultural differences, and varying definitions of success complicate the discussion. What makes a school the “best”? Is it academic rigour, inclusivity, facilities, or the ability to cater to students of all abilities?

The answer is as complex as education itself.

The Subjectivity of “Best” in Best School in the World

Defining what constitutes the best school is inherently subjective. Different stakeholders, including parents, students, educators, and policymakers, have unique perspectives on what qualities make a school outstanding. Some prioritise academic achievement and university placements, while others value personal growth, character development, or social skills. Commonly agreed-upon factors include high-quality teachers, a safe and supportive learning environment, robust extracurricular programs, and solid post-graduation outcomes. However, the weight given to these factors varies widely depending on individual beliefs and priorities.

The Perception of Expensive Schools Being the Best Schools

There is a widespread perception that the most expensive schools are the best schools, driven by the belief that higher tuition fees equate to better facilities, more qualified teachers, and a superior overall education. Parents often assume that a price tag reflects the quality of education their children will receive, with expensive schools often boasting state-of-the-art facilities, extensive extracurricular programs, and smaller class sizes that promise individualised attention.

Source: TimeOut Magazine and Spears Index

However, this perception can be very misleading. While it is true that higher fees can enable a school to offer more resources and opportunities, they do not necessarily guarantee better educational outcomes or a more enriching school experience. Many affordable schools also provide exceptional education by fostering strong community values, focusing on student well-being, and promoting academic and personal growth through innovative teaching methods. Additionally, the best schools are not solely defined by their resources but by their ability to inspire students, adapt to their needs, and prepare them for life beyond the classroom. The assumption that cost alone determines quality can overlook the many factors that contribute to a truly outstanding educational experience.

Expensive schools may indeed offer numerous advantages, but the belief that they are inherently the best oversimplifies the complexities of what makes a school exceptional. Parents and students should look beyond the price tag and consider the broader picture, including the school’s culture, values, educational philosophy, and ability to meet the specific needs of each student.

Read about: The Most Elite International Schools in Europe

Types of Schools: A Comparative Analysis

To further complicate matters, the type of school can significantly influence opinions about what makes it the best. Government schools, private non-profit schools, and private for-profit schools each offer distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Government schools are often lauded for their accessibility and inclusivity. They are designed to serve the general population, regardless of socio-economic background. However, they are frequently criticised for a lack of resources, large class sizes, and limited flexibility in curriculum and teaching methods.

Private non-profit schools focus on mission-driven education, emphasising values such as community service, academic excellence, and personal development. These schools are known for their smaller class sizes, well-rounded programs, and strong emphasis on both academic and extracurricular achievements. However, their tuition fees can be prohibitive for many families, raising questions about equity and access.

Private for-profit schools aim for efficiency and results, often focusing on delivering measurable outcomes and high levels of customer (parent and student) satisfaction. While these schools may offer cutting-edge facilities and innovative teaching methods, they are sometimes criticised for prioritising financial gain over educational quality, potentially leading to a more transactional view of education. To be fair, such criticism is often unfair, but the perception remains.

The debate between these types of schools is not just about resources and outcomes but also about values.

What is the role of education?

Is it to prepare students for a specific career, develop well-rounded individuals, or promote social equity?

Unique School Profiles: Diverse Approaches to Education

Beyond the general categories of schools, there are institutions with unique profiles that further challenge the concept of the “best” school. Religious schools, for instance, often prioritise faith-based education, moral development, and community values. These schools appeal to families seeking an education that aligns with their religious beliefs and cultural practices, offering a sense of belonging and continuity. In contrast, secular schools emphasise a non-religious curriculum, focusing on diversity, critical thinking, and inclusivity. They aim to provide an environment where students from all backgrounds, and religions, can learn from one another and develop a broad worldview.

Then there are specialized schools that focus on unique areas like sports, arts, or specific cultural pathways. Some even focus on vocations or careers. These schools cater to students’ particular talents and interests, offering programs that might prioritise excellence in their specialised fields over a traditional academic curriculum. For example, a sports academy may prioritise athletic training and development alongside academics, while an art school might focus heavily on creative expression and performance skills.

The goals of schooling for families and students attending these specialised institutions differ significantly from those attending more traditional schools. For some, the primary objective may be to develop a particular talent or passion professionally, while for others, it might be about preserving cultural heritage or deepening religious faith. This diversity in educational profiles highlights that what is “best” is often deeply personal and aligned with individual or familial values and goals.

The Perfect Student Profile and Defining Success

Who is the perfect student, and what does success look like? The answer to this question is critical to understanding different perspectives on what makes a school the best. For some, the ideal student is a high achiever who excels in academics and gains admission to a top university. Success, in this context, is defined by grades, test scores, and future earning potential. However, others might argue that the perfect student grows holistically, developing social skills, resilience, and a love for learning. For these individuals, success is measured by academic outcomes, personal development, and well-being. Their impact and influence might judge them and their ability to make a difference.

Academic Rigor vs. Holistic Development

High-performing schools often garner praise for their rigorous academic programs and impressive test scores. Yet, the focus on high achievement can sometimes come at the expense of students who may not fit the traditional mould of a high achiever. Schools prioritising improving all students, regardless of their starting point, are also essential. These institutions emphasise growth metrics and value-added assessments, aiming to support diverse learners and ensure every student can achieve their potential.

Inclusivity plays a significant role here. Schools that embrace diverse student populations and foster inclusive practices may not always have the highest test scores or prestigious university placements. However, they provide valuable opportunities for personal growth and social development, teaching students the importance of empathy, collaboration, and respect for differences.

Socio-Economic Factors and Educational Outcomes

Another layer of complexity in defining the best school is the role of socioeconomic factors. Research consistently shows that students from affluent families tend to perform better academically. This reality raises questions about the fairness of using standardised test scores and university admissions as the sole measures of a school’s quality. Schools serving lower-income communities often face limited resources and external socio-economic pressures, affecting their performance metrics. Yet, these schools might be doing an exceptional job under challenging circumstances, providing a critical service in leveling the playing field for disadvantaged students.

The Controversial Nature of Rankings

One of the most contentious aspects of naming the best school is the reliance on rankings. While rankings can provide a snapshot of a school’s academic performance and reputation, they often fail to capture the diverse factors that make a school truly exceptional. Many ranking models are influenced by standardised test scores, graduation rates, and university placements, which do not necessarily reflect a school’s ability to foster a well-rounded education or support students from various backgrounds.

Moreover, the integrity of some ranking systems is sometimes compromised by the influence of lobby groups, paid advertising, or promotional efforts. This can lead to a skewed perception of what makes a school the best, favouring institutions that have the resources to invest in marketing over those that may excel in areas not as easily quantified. The result is a narrow view that often overlooks schools that provide strong support for student well-being, inclusivity, and personal growth—qualities that are harder to measure but equally important.

Some more credible ranking systems are those such as Speers 500 school index. They claim they have “worked closely with the expert team at Thuso to refine the methodology underpinning the index, and to convene an expert panel of leading international educationalists to contribute their knowledge and insight to the research and selection process.”

“The U.S. News Best High Schools rankings include data on nearly 25,000 public high schools in 50 states and the District of Columbia. Nearly 18,000 schools were ranked on six factors based on their performance on state assessments and how well they prepare students for college.”

Top School Guide ranks schools in the UK. Their table lists the top 100 independent schools in the UK based on A-Level or GCSE results. Each school’s percentage of grades determines rankings. awarded in the higher levels.

But again, by what criteria should be a judge a great school and is it only the academic results that matter?

Conflicting Beliefs and Values in Education

Ultimately, opinions about what makes conflicting beliefs and values shape the best school. For some, quality education is synonymous with academic excellence and rigorous standards. For others, it is about character education, community service, and developing well-rounded individuals. Cultural contexts and community values also significantly influence how different groups perceive and prioritise educational outcomes.

The Role of Accreditation in Defining School Quality

Another important factor in evaluating what makes a school the “best” is accreditation. Accreditation serves as a quality assurance process where schools are evaluated against a set of standards to ensure they meet certain educational benchmarks. Some accreditation bodies, such as the Council of International Schools (CIS), the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), and the International Baccalaureate (IB), are highly respected. These organisations focus on a comprehensive review process that examines academic performance, governance, leadership, teaching practices, student support, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Schools accredited by these bodies are often viewed as maintaining high standards and prioritizing educational excellence.

However, not all accreditation bodies are created equal. Some organisations operate more like membership associations rather than rigorous accrediting agencies. These bodies may lack a robust evaluation process or may not require continuous improvement as part of their accreditation criteria. In some cases, schools might receive accreditation based on limited criteria that do not reflect the full spectrum of educational quality, including areas like student well-being, diversity, and holistic development. As a result, a school’s accreditation status can sometimes be misleading, suggesting a level of quality and excellence that is not truly representative.

This variation in the credibility and rigour of accreditation processes can confuse parents, students, and educators. It also raises critical questions about how we judge a school’s quality and what standards we use to define educational excellence. A credible accreditation should provide a framework for schools to engage in self-reflection, demonstrate accountability, and commit to ongoing improvement across all areas of education—not just academics. Schools that pursue such rigorous accreditation processes are likely better positioned to offer a well-rounded and high-quality education that meets the diverse needs of their students.

Learn more about accreditation

Naming the best school in the world is an impossible task because the answer depends on who you ask. It is a question that invites us to reflect on our own values, priorities, and beliefs about education. Rather than seeking a definitive answer, perhaps the more meaningful conversation is about what we believe education should achieve and how we can support diverse schools in meeting the varied needs of all students.

What do you think makes a school the best?

Engage with others, challenge your assumptions, and participate in this ongoing conversation about quality education.

If you want to learn more about the steps required to set up a school check out some of our other articles:

– Steps to Setting Up a New School

– 10 Steps and Articles on How to Set Up a New School

– GSE International School Franchise Models

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CEO and Education Expert Greg Parry

Internationally renowned for his expertise in education leadership, Greg Parry’s vast experience includes leadership of projects for education institutions throughout Australia, the Middle East, the United States, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and China. Recognised for his numerous contributions in the education arena, Greg has received the Ministers Award for Excellence in School Leadership based on improvements in school performance and a range of successful principal training and leadership development programs, as well as the School of Excellence Award for Industry/School Partnerships and the School of Excellence Award for Technology Innovation. His company GSE (Global Services in Education) has been recognised as having the Best Global Brand in International Education in 2015 and 2016.

Considered one of the premier experts in his profession, Greg has trained teachers and principals throughout the world in areas such as critical thinking, language development and leadership. His expertise in school start up projects, leadership and curriculum development, has made him a sought after authority in these discipline.

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Global Services in Education set up and operate schools in all parts of the world. Governed by a philosophy of global citizenship, every member of the GSE team shares a passion to help shape international education and student achievement through inspiration and collaboration.
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