London’s Best West End Theatre Shows For Schools

Planning an educational and exciting school trip to London? Nothing inspires creativity and cultural capital quite like a live performance in London’s world-famous West End. Whether you're organizing a drama trip, English literature outing, or a reward experience, West End theatre offers unforgettable learning opportunities for students.

Here are the Top West End shows for school groups in 2025, specially selected for their educational value, age-appropriateness, and wow factor. Plus, many productions offer special school group discounts and educational resources to enhance your visit.

Venue: Cambridge Theatre
Suitable for: KS2–KS4
Why schools love it: Based on Roald Dahl’s classic, Matilda is a fantastic choice for younger students. With themes of empowerment, creativity, and resilience, it’s a brilliant tie-in with English and PSHE curricula.
Educational bonuses: Workshops available; teacher resource packs available to dowload via their schools department. 

Venue: Lyceum Theatre
Suitable for: KS2–KS4
Why schools love it: This Disney favourite combines stunning puppetry, music, and moral lessons that make it ideal for both drama and citizenship studies.
Educational bonuses: A range of educational materials are available to download to support learning before and after your visit. 

Venue: Apollo Victoria Theatre
Suitable for: KS3–KS5
Why schools love it: A modern classic with strong messages about identity, friendship, and challenging authority. It’s also a hit with students interested in gender roles and character development. The recent film has brought a renewed interest in the story and the iconic songs. 
Educational bonuses: Wide range of free downloadable resources are available with their education department Wicked Active Learning 

Venue: Victoria Palace Theatre
Suitable for: KS4–KS5
Why schools love it: A dynamic introduction to American history, the founding fathers, and the power of hip-hop storytelling. Hamilton i. Following Alexander Hamilton’s life before, during and after the American Revolution, Hamilton is a huge hit with teenagers and offers unique cross-curricular links.
Educational bonuses: Students can explore historical resources, timelines and find out more about key individuals at the Hamilton Education Program

Venue: Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Suitable for: KS2–KS4
Why schools love it: Based on the legendary Greek hero, Hercules brings mythology to life with humour, heart, and heroic songs. It’s a brilliant way to engage students with classical stories, character archetypes, and musical theatre.
Educational bonuses: Supports learning in English, Classics, and Drama.

Venue: Vaudeville Theatre
Suitable for: KS3–KS5
Why schools love it: This bold and brilliant pop musical brings the six wives of Henry VIII to life in a way that’s funny, feminist, and historically informed. A perfect companion to the history curriculum and a great way to engage students in storytelling through song.
Educational bonuses: Strong ties to KS3/GCSE History, female perspectives in performance, and pop music studies.

Venue: Palace Theatre
Suitable for: KS3–KS5
Why schools love it: A magical continuation of the beloved series that promotes discussion on legacy, friendship, and identity.
Educational bonuses: Free school resources which include a range of activities to download before and after seeing the production.

© Manuel Harlan

Venue: Adelphi Theatre
Suitable for: KS3–KS5
Why schools love it: A fun and clever musical with STEM and time travel themes. Engages students in science, ethics, and 80s culture.
Educational bonuses: Online education resources are available through worksheets, activities, video and interviews with key members of the production.

Venue: Sondheim Theatre
Suitable for: KS4–KS5
Why schools love it: Ideal for students studying literature, drama, or history. The story of revolution, justice, and redemption is powerful and deeply moving.
Educational bonuses: Links to 19th-century literature and French history; ideal for GCSE and A-Level analysis.