Top 10 Best Rated Primary Schools In Osun State

When you think of Osun State, you might picture the world-famous Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, the vibrant Yoruba festivals, and the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife. But beyond its cultural treasures, Osun State is also home to some of the finest primary schools in South-West Nigeria.

For Nigerian parents, we know that choosing the right primary school is more than just picking the closest one. You want a place that combines academic excellence, moral values, modern teaching methods, and a safe, nurturing environment. After all, the foundation your child builds in primary school can shape their entire educational journey.

In this post, we’ve researched and compiled the top 10 best-rated primary schools in Osun State—spanning Osogbo, Ile-Ife, Ilesa, Ede, and other towns—based on reputation, facilities, academic performance, and parent feedback.

1. Lifeforte International School (Primary Section), Ibadan-Ife Road

Location: Apete, Ibadan-Ife Road (close to Ile-Ife)

Website: www.lifeforte.org

Although technically in Ibadan, Lifeforte is a top choice for many Osun State parents due to its proximity and international-standard facilities. Its primary section offers a British-Nigerian hybrid curriculum with a strong Christian ethos.

Why parents love it:

World-class facilities (ICT labs, science rooms, sports complexes)

Strong moral and leadership training

Teachers trained in global best practices

Boarding option available for older primary pupils

Standout fact: Many pupils transition seamlessly into top secondary schools in Nigeria and abroad.

2. Olive Branches Schools, Osogbo

Location: Oke-Baale, Osogbo

Website: N/A

Olive Branches Schools has built a reputation for producing pupils who excel in both academics and moral discipline. The school prides itself on small class sizes to ensure personalized attention.

Highlights:

Montessori-based early years program

Strong focus on public speaking and reading culture

Safe, clean, and well-monitored environment

Affordable fees for the quality offered

Parent tip: Pupils here regularly top inter-school competitions in Osun.

3. Gloryland Group of Schools, Ile-Ife

Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State

Website: N/A

Located in the university town of Ile-Ife, Gloryland offers a rich blend of academic rigor and extracurricular vibrancy. It attracts children of university lecturers, business owners, and professionals.

Why it stands out:

Experienced teachers, many with university-level exposure

Robust music and drama programs

Strong science foundation for upper primary pupils

Best for: Parents looking for a balanced academic and creative learning environment.

4. Our Lady & St. Francis Catholic Nursery & Primary School, Osogbo

Location: Osogbo

Website: N/A

This mission school is one of the oldest and most respected in Osun State. Run under Catholic management, it offers moral discipline, academic structure, and spiritual guidance.

Why choose it:

Long track record of academic success

Affordable tuition without compromising quality

Emphasis on neatness, respect, and handwriting skills

Insider note: Pupils from this school often perform exceptionally in national common entrance exams.

5. OAU Staff School, Ile-Ife

Location: Obafemi Awolowo University Campus, Ile-Ife

Website: www.oauife.edu.ng

The OAU Staff School serves the children of university staff but is also open to the public. It is well-known for discipline, quality teaching, and access to university-standard facilities.

Why it’s top-rated:

Well-trained and highly experienced teachers

Access to OAU’s sports, science, and cultural resources

Competitive academic environment

Parent verdict: “If you want your child to be sharp and confident early, OAU Staff School is a strong choice.”

6. King’s Kiddies International School, Osogbo

Location: Osogbo

Website: N/A

This school is a rising star in Osogbo’s education scene. With smart classrooms, a strong reading culture, and innovative teaching methods, King’s Kiddies has quickly gained popularity among middle-class and upwardly mobile families.

Key features:

British-Nigerian curriculum

ICT integration from early classes

Leadership and entrepreneurship programs

Unique point: Frequent school trips to historical sites in Osun for cultural education.

7. Fakunle Comprehensive Academy (Primary Section), Osogbo

Location: Osogbo

Website: N/A

Fakunle is one of Osun’s iconic educational institutions, with decades of history. Its primary section continues the tradition of discipline, excellence, and academic competitiveness.

Why it’s respected:

Consistent high performance in competitions

Affordable yet quality education

Well-structured timetable for academics and play

Pro tip: Best suited for parents seeking an affordable but disciplined learning environment.

8. Ife City Schools, Ile-Ife

Location: Ile-Ife

Website: N/A

Ife City Schools is a household name in Ile-Ife, known for producing pupils who excel in secondary school and beyond. It has a good mix of academic focus and extracurricular activities.

Strengths:

Highly qualified teaching staff

Spacious classrooms and play areas

Good teacher-pupil ratio

Parents’ verdict: “They teach academics but also life skills.”

9. Ilesa Grammar School Nursery & Primary Section

Location: Ilesa

Website: N/A

A well-established name in the educational history of Osun State, Ilesa Grammar School’s primary arm offers a well-grounded Nigerian curriculum with a touch of modern learning approaches.

Why it’s loved:

Historical prestige

Affordable and accessible for many families

Strong sports programs

Ideal for: Parents who value traditional discipline with modern touches.

10. Sunshine Kiddies Academy, Ede

Location: Ede, Osun State

Website: N/A

A fast-growing school in Ede, Sunshine Kiddies offers a nurturing environment for children to learn, play, and explore their creativity while excelling academically.

Why it stands out:

Engaging, play-based early learning

Strong parental involvement in school programs

Friendly atmosphere that encourages confidence

Best for: Parents who want a smaller, more intimate learning environment for their children.

What Makes a Primary School Stand Out in Osun State?

While all the schools on this list excel in different areas, the best-rated ones usually share these qualities:

Qualified Teachers: Passionate and experienced educators make all the difference.

Balanced Curriculum: A mix of Nigerian, British, or hybrid systems works best.

Moral Discipline: Many parents prioritize schools with strong ethical and spiritual values.

Facilities: ICT labs, safe playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms.

Parental Engagement: Schools that work closely with parents produce more confident and well-rounded pupils.

FAQs – Best Rated Primary Schools in Osun State

Q1: What’s the average tuition for top schools in Osun State?

A: Fees range from ₦25,000 to ₦200,000 per term depending on the school’s location, curriculum, and facilities.

Q2: Are there boarding facilities for primary pupils in Osun?

A: Yes, schools like Lifeforte International offer optional boarding for upper primary pupils.

Q3: Which city in Osun has the highest concentration of top schools?

A: Osogbo and Ile-Ife lead, followed by Ilesa and Ede.

Q4: How can I verify a school’s academic performance?

A: Check past results in Common Entrance exams, talk to other parents, or review the school’s social media updates.

Q5: Is British curriculum better than Nigerian curriculum?

A: Both have strengths. British curriculum offers global exposure, while Nigerian curriculum better prepares pupils for local entrance exams.

Conclusion

Osun State may be known for its rich culture and heritage, but its commitment to quality education is equally impressive. From the bustling streets of Osogbo to the academic atmosphere of Ile-Ife, parents have access to some of the best primary schools in the region—schools that combine academic excellence with strong moral values.

Remember, choosing the right primary school is an investment in your child’s future. Don’t just look at the name—visit the campus, meet the teachers, and talk to other parents. Whether you choose a mission school, a modern private academy, or a hybrid institution, ensure it’s a place where your child will thrive.