The prestigious Muddy Stilettos guide for 2026 has been released, highlighting the best neighbourhoods and educational institutions across the country, with six standout schools from the West Midlands making the coveted list.
What Makes the Muddy Stilettos Guide Unique?
This influential school guide stands apart from others because it is compiled from independent, honest, and informal reviews written by parent editors. Rather than focusing solely on academic results, the guide offers unique insights into a school's character, examining its overall ethos, facilities, and its success in nurturing creativity and self-belief in its students.
The West Midlands' Top Performing Schools
Here are the six schools from the region that have been recognised for their excellence in the 2026 guide.
King's High School, Warwick
This leading senior school for girls was praised for its pioneering approach to educational innovation. Its reputation was further solidified by being crowned Senior School of the Year in the Independent Schools Association awards for 2025.
Warwick Road Junior, Infant and Nursery School
Located on the sprawling 50-acre site of one of Britain's oldest surviving schools, this establishment is far from outdated. The guide commends it as a warm, nurturing, and creative day school for boys aged 7 to 11, situated in the beautiful town of Warwick.
Princethorpe College, Rugby
Set in an idyllic rural part of Warwickshire, this selective independent co-educational Catholic day school for 11 to 18-year-olds was highlighted for its strong family feel and excellent pastoral care, alongside its robust academic performance.
The Kingsley School, Leamington Spa
Known locally for being both caring and high-achieving, this academically selective 'all-through' day school is located in the heart of elegant Leamington Spa. Its prep school is co-educational, and the Senior School and Sixth Form will also become co-ed from September 2025.
A Celebration of Educational Excellence
The inclusion of these six schools in the Muddy Stilettos 2026 guide underscores the strength and diversity of the education sector in the West Midlands. It highlights institutions that are not only achieving high academic standards but are also committed to fostering well-rounded, confident students through innovative teaching and supportive environments.
