Interactive map: 2011’s top schools

The FT’s interactive map allows you to explore the best 1,000 schools in England.

Use the map to see which regions perform best overall, and which have the best independent schools.

Then within the regions, click on an individual school for more details on its performance.

Our top 10 rankings also allow you to explore which schools in each sector - including single-sex education - are at the top of their game.

You can also download the full data and read the full analysis.

What the FT ranking means

To calculate the scores, the FT has used the Qualification and Curriculum development agency’s tariff to assign points to grades obtained by students. For example, an A at A-level is worth 270 points, while an E scores 150 points. Two measurements have been devised to rank the schools: the points per candidate and points per entry, in terms of core subjects only. Using these two metrics gives an assessment of both the quality and quantity of exam passes in 2010.

An FT score has been calculated for each school. First, z-scores were calculated for both of the ranking measures, a mathematical formula that creates numbers reflecting the range of the points. These were then combined, to give a total. A positive score indicates a performance above the average for qualifying schools in England; a negative score equates to a below-average rating. The FT rank is based on this score.