Bales is an Independent School and Sixth Form College for ages 11-19. We accept UK and international students. Most of our students have grown up locally, with around 10% being international.
We are located in Kensal Rise W10 near to Ladbroke Grove, Queens Park and Maida Vale. The school is easily accessible on the Overground (Kensal Rise), Bakerloo (Kensal Green/Queens Park), and on many bus routes such as 18, 23, 52, 70, 228, 295, 316, 452.
Join year 7
Every child charts a unique course toward achievement in school and beyond, a principle that guides our teaching approach.
Join year 10 or year 11
We firmly believe that every child embarks on a unique journey that is essential for their growth and success in both education and life. This belief profoundly influences and shapes our educational philosophy.
Age 16+
Our learning philosophy centers on the idea that every child has a personal journey to success in both academics and life.
Specialist SEN teachers, EHCP-funded places, and integration with mainstream classes throughout your child’s time at Bales.
Tier 4 visa licensed. EAL support. Zoom calls before you visit, and host family arrangements for ages 16 and over.
At Bales College, we believe that every child deserves a personalised journey to success. Our philosophy is built on care, inclusiveness, and rigorous yet enjoyable learning. With a family-like atmosphere, highly qualified teachers, and a supportive environment, each student is guided to reach their full potential both academically and personally.
We emphasise our four core values — Respect, Humour, Energy, and Perseverance — which shape daily life at the school. Respect fosters strong relationships between students and staff, while humour and energy create a positive and engaging environment. Perseverance, reflected in our motto Semper Perstare (“always persist”), ensures that students develop resilience and determination. Together, these values help children feel secure, motivated, and ready to thrive in education and life.
A Level classes are typically three to six pupils. GCSE English and Maths classes go up to eight to one. The timetable is standard; the teaching inside it is personal. If your child needs more time on a particular topic, they get it.
Teachers know your child’s strengths and weaknesses. They adapt pace and depth to the individual, not to a national scheme of work designed for two hundred.
Sixth form staff-to-student ratio
Pupils in a typical A Level class
Established in 1966, our independent school combines tradition with modern achievement. ISI inspected in 2024 and proud ISA member, we are a Tier 4 licensed visa sponsor. With 85% of students achieving A*–C at A Level in 2025, we continue to uphold a legacy of excellence and opportunity.
Independent school established
Member school
Inspected 2024
A*–C at A Level (2025)
Tier 4
Eighty-five per cent of A Level grades at A*–C in 2025; eighty-eight per cent of GCSE entries at Grade 5–9. Most leavers go on to university; UCAS support is genuinely individual, not a presentation in the school hall.
Past leavers have gone on to King’s College London, Durham, Manchester, and a wide range of Russell Group destinations.
Our students and families share heartfelt experiences that reflect the values of Respect, Humour, Energy, and Perseverance
