There’s no shortage of private schools in London, but every so often, you come across a place
that doesn’t just tick boxes—it redefines what education can be. That’s CFBL (Collège
Français Bilingue de Londres), nestled in the heart of Kentish Town. And yes, we’re going to
say it: it might just be the best private school in London.
Here’s why.
A True Bilingual Experience, Not Just a Buzzword
You’ll hear the phrase “bilingual education” thrown around a lot, but CFBL lives and
breathes it. From nursery all the way to Year 10, students are immersed in both French and
English daily—not in the occasional lesson, but across their whole curriculum.
What’s especially impressive is how this balance is achieved without sacrificing academic
depth in either language. Students become truly fluent, not just conversational, and they
graduate with the confidence to navigate two cultures, two languages, and two sets of
academic expectations. That’s not just useful—it’s transformative.
The Warmth of a Village, in the Heart of a Capital City
Many private schools in London can feel a little formal or intimidating. CFBL manages to
feel different. From the moment you walk through its doors, there’s a palpable warmth:
students greet each other in both languages, teachers know everyone’s name, and parents feel
like they’re part of something special.
The school isn’t enormous, and that’s part of its charm. It fosters a sense of community that’s
hard to manufacture. It’s personal. It’s human. And it makes a world of difference in your
child’s day-to-day experience.
Not Just for French Families (Though They’ll Love It Too)
While CFBL naturally attracts French-speaking families looking for French schools in
London, it’s far from exclusive. British and international families who value multilingualism
and cultural diversity are drawn to it too. It’s the kind of place where children of different
nationalities blend effortlessly, united by curiosity, creativity, and a shared love for learning.
And for parents thinking ahead to international opportunities, the school’s bilingual
foundation offers incredible flexibility—whether that’s transitioning into the French
education system abroad, or continuing on a British path in the UK.
Academics, Yes—but So Much More
CFBL’s academic results are strong, but it’s not a pressure-cooker. The school values
creativity, sports, music, and emotional development just as much as grades. Children are
encouraged to be themselves, to ask questions, to think deeply and differently. The emphasis
isn’t just on “how much did you score?” but “what kind of person are you becoming?”
That kind of environment doesn’t just produce well-educated students—it produces well-
rounded humans.
A School That’s Just a Bit Different
If you’re exploring private schools in London or researching French schools in London,
CFBL deserves a serious look. It offers that rare combination: the academic rigour of a
French curriculum, the openness of British education, and the global perspective of a truly
bilingual environment.
And more than anything, it just feels right. Sometimes, you visit a school and you just know.
Want to see the magic for yourself? CFBL welcomes prospective families to visit and get a
real feel for the school’s atmosphere. Bring your questions—and maybe brush up on your
French.