Derry’s Lumen Christi College named among the top schools in Northern Ireland

Derry’s Lumen Christi College has been named among the top schools in Northern Ireland.

The grammar school, opened in 1997, ranked sixth among the top-performing Northern Ireland schools in the 33rd edition of The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026.

Widely acknowledged as the most authoritative survey of the country’s top schools, the guide was published on Friday.

Recognised as the definitive ranking of the UK’s top primary and secondary state and independent schools, this guide remains an essential resource for parents seeking the very best in education for their children.  

Helen Davies, editor of The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide, said: “The educational landscape is testing – budget challenges, rising student mental health issues, special educational needs and an increasingly uncertain future.

“But there is also so much to celebrate from the dedication of teachers who are finding ever more innovative and impactful ways to enrich their students and give them the very best start in life.  

“As well as celebrating the academic excellence of the top schools it is uplifting to see how they are shaping their students to be ready for the 21st century, and instilling a lifelong love of learning.”