Everyone loves a West End show. The glitz. The glamour. The special thrill that comes from being so close to the action. There really is no business like show business, and when you include a West End show on your school trip to London it can be an incredible experience like no other.
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.
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.
At WST we make organising a school trip to London’s West End simple and stress-free. From discounted group bookings to transport and itinerary planning, we’ve got you covered.