Top-Performing Secondary Schools in Wales: The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026 Rankings
The latest edition of The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026 has revealed the top-performing secondary schools in Wales. The guide ranks schools based on their A level, GCSE, and other exam results. Among the highest-achieving schools in Wales are Ysgol Eirias in Colwyn Bay and Ruthin School.
Ysgol Eirias, with a history dating back to 1903, has evolved from a secondary to a grammar school and currently educates around 1,600 students. Ruthin School, tracing its origins to 1284 and re-founded in 1574, is now a coeducational boarding and day school with over 200 pupils.
Helen Davies, the editor of The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide, commended the dedication of teachers in the face of challenges in the educational landscape. She highlighted the innovative approaches taken by schools to enrich students and prepare them for the future, fostering a love for lifelong learning.
The top state secondary schools in Wales include Cowbridge School, Ysgol Bro Preseli, Ysgol Gyfun Penweddig, Ysgol Eirias, Y Pant Comprehensive School, Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Bro Myrddin, and Bishop Vaughan RC School. On the other hand, the top secondary independent schools in Wales feature Cardiff Sixth Form College, Westbourne School, St Michael’s School, St John's College, Cardiff, The Cathedral School, Llandaff, and Ruthin School.
The dedication to academic excellence and the holistic development of students showcased by these top schools in Wales is commendable, shaping individuals ready for the challenges of the 21st century and instilling a passion for learning.