The 2025 Schools to Watch List by Carfax Education

Carfax Education has recently released the 2025 edition of the Schools to Watch list, part of The Schools Index.

For families based in Monaco, the search for the perfect school often involves looking across borders. Whether the priority is a forward-thinking IB programme in Europe or a traditional boarding education in the UK, the choices are vast. The recently published 2025 Schools to Watch list helps to narrow this field by identifying the schools that are currently outperforming expectations.

This curated selection of 25 schools complements our main Schools Index of the world’s leading 150 schools. The Schools to Watch list focuses specifically on the current momentum – highlighting schools that are undergoing dynamic transformations or offering something genuinely distinct from the mainstream.

European Gems and British Classics

This year's list will be of particular interest to families in Europe. We have spotlighted H-Farm International School in Venice, an institution that blends technology and entrepreneurship with traditional academics, placed in the 'Something Different' category. In Mediterranean Europe, St. Catherine's British School in Athens and The English School in Nicosia are also recognised as 'Ones to Watch' for their academic rigour and regional leadership.

For those looking towards the UK, the list identifies several boarding schools that are currently enjoying a strong resurgence. Ampleforth College and The Leys School are featured for their renewed energy and strategic direction, offering compelling options for families who value British heritage combined with excellent pastoral care.

A Global Perspective

Beyond Europe, the list recognises the schools driving standards in other key global hubs. In the Middle East, institutions such as Dubai English Speaking School and King's School The Crown in Cairo are setting new benchmarks for international education.

The selection also captures the innovation adding to the landscape in the Americas and Asia. We have highlighted Avenues São Paulo in Brazil and Singapore American School, both of which exemplify the global shift towards holistic, forward-thinking education. These sit alongside established US names like The Buckley School in Los Angeles and exciting new entrants such as Harrow International School New York.

To see the full 2025 Edition of the Schools to Watch list and to read the individual school entries, please follow this link: https://www.schools-index.com/2025/to-watch

Image credit: Harrow International School, New York