Christ College Brecon has been named one of Wales’ leading independent secondary schools in the 2026 edition of The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide.

The school came in ninth place nationally among Welsh independent schools.

The prestigious annual guide, widely regarded as the definitive ranking of UK schools, highlights top performers based on exam results and overall academic excellence. In Wales, Cardiff Sixth Form College topped the list for independent secondary schools, with Cowbridge School taking the title of Independent Secondary School of the Year.

Christ College Brecon is a co-educational independent boarding and day school for pupils aged 7–18. Founded in 1541 by Henry VIII, the school retains its historic link to its founder through the distinctive ‘h’ logo worn by pupils. The school’s motto, translates from Latin as “They achieve because they believe they can.” Pupils achieved strong academic results this year, with 72 per cent of A-level grades awarded A*–B and an overall pass rate of 98 per cent. At GCSE level, one in eight pupils earned straight A*–A grades across all subjects.

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.”

The full guide, which ranks more than 2,000 UK schools, is available at: www.thetimes.com/best-schools-league-table/secondary/article/secondary-schools-revealed-2026-g9w9n8rqw