Top 10 Best Rated Primary Schools In Oyo State

When it comes to educational excellence in the South-West, Oyo State stands tall. Home to Nigeria’s largest city by landmass, Ibadan, and institutions like the University of Ibadan and The Polytechnic Ibadan, the state has long been a beacon of learning.

But aside from higher institutions, Oyo boasts some of the finest primary schools in the country—places where children are not just taught to pass exams, but molded into future leaders with strong morals, creativity, and confidence.

Whether you’re a parent in Ibadan, Ogbomoso, Oyo town, or rural communities like Iseyin or Saki, this blog post will guide you in choosing the best-rated primary school for your child.

Let’s explore the top 10 best-rated primary schools in Oyo State in 2025, based on academic performance, parent reviews, facilities, and commitment to all-round child development.

1. Lifeforte International Schools, Ibadan

Location: Apete, Ibadan

Website: www.lifeforte.org

Lifeforte is not just one of the best schools in Oyo—it’s one of the top in Nigeria. Known for academic excellence, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and international recognition, Lifeforte’s primary section is structured to nurture a child’s academic and personal growth from the ground up.

Why it’s top-rated:

British-Nigerian curriculum

Boarding and day options

ICT, science, music, and language labs

Excellent exam results and global exposure

Parental Verdict: “If you can afford it, Lifeforte is a dream school.”

2. Lead British International School, Ibadan

Location: Jericho GRA, Ibadan

Website: www.lbis.org

Lead British International School (LBIS) offers world-class primary education that blends the British curriculum with the Nigerian academic structure, giving students a balanced global-local experience.

Highlights:

Excellent reading and writing programs

Extracurricular activities from a young age

Regular international exchange programs

Safe and secure learning environment

Best for: Parents looking to give their children a premium international start.

3. The Vale College (Primary Section), Ibadan

Location: Old Bodija, Ibadan

Website: www.valecollege.com

The Vale College is famous for its secondary school, but its primary section is just as outstanding. This school provides a strong academic foundation with high moral values, creating a well-rounded child.

Why parents love it:

Focus on academic excellence

Personalized attention in small class sizes

Creative arts, coding, and sports integration

Strong Christian values

Parent Tip: Children from The Vale consistently win entrance scholarships to top secondary schools.

4. Seed of Life Nursery and Primary School, Ibadan

Location: Ring Road, Ibadan

Website: N/A

With over two decades of educational service, Seed of Life has consistently delivered solid academic results, especially in common entrance and national assessments.

Why it stands out:

Focus on literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking

Dedicated and passionate teachers

Affordable but high-quality education

Great for working-class and middle-income families

Pro tip: Early application is advised due to high demand.

5. George and Duke International School, Ibadan

Location: Akobo, Ibadan

Website: N/A

A rising star in Ibadan’s education scene, George and Duke is known for its structured teaching method, excellent classroom environment, and strong emphasis on character-building and leadership.

Key strengths:

Blended curriculum (Nigerian + British)

Well-equipped science and computer labs

Sports, music, and chess clubs

Strong academic record in recent years

Ideal for: Parents who want a nurturing, balanced environment.

6. Lifespring Schools, Ibadan

Location: Oluyole Estate, Ibadan

Website: www.lifespringschools.org

Lifespring is one of the few schools that effectively blend Montessori methods with modern Nigerian curricula, giving children a solid cognitive and emotional foundation.

Why it’s unique:

Strong early childhood education

Emphasis on phonics, reading, and public speaking

Christian-based morals and ethics

Excellent parent-teacher relationship system

Parents say: “They don’t just teach—they develop the whole child.”

7. Rubies International School, Ibadan

Location: Ologuneru, Ibadan

Website: N/A

Rubies International School has quickly become a household name among parents looking for excellence at an affordable price. Its early learning centre is particularly praised for its well-trained teachers and stimulating environment.

Features:

Montessori curriculum in lower primary

ICT, arts, and dance from Primary 1

Affordable tuition for the facilities offered

Regular internal and external competitions

Best for: Parents seeking value for money without compromising standards.

8. Taadel Private School, Oyo Town

Location: Owode, Oyo

Website: N/A

One of the top-rated schools outside Ibadan, Taadel has put Oyo Town on the education map. It is praised for combining strict academic discipline with hands-on learning.

Strengths:

Impressive common entrance results

Emphasis on handwriting and spelling

Good transport services and clean facilities

Passionate teachers

Standout Point: Students often get admitted into top secondary schools in Ibadan and Lagos.

9. Icon International School, Ogbomoso

Location: Ogbomoso

Website: N/A

This is arguably the best primary school in Ogbomoso. Icon International is a Christian-based institution that offers a safe and friendly atmosphere for learning.

Why it's rated highly:

Blended curriculum

Bible-based moral teaching

Extra coaching for struggling pupils

Vibrant cultural day and talent shows

Parents say: “Icon shapes your child’s character and brain at the same time.”

10. Sacred Heart Nursery & Primary School, Ibadan

Location: Oke-Ado, Ibadan

Website: N/A

A classic Catholic school that has stood the test of time. Sacred Heart is known for discipline, moral upbringing, and academic structure. Many prominent professionals in Ibadan today passed through this institution.

Why people love it:

Missionary discipline and simplicity

High standard of reading and writing

Dedicated and experienced teachers

Affordable tuition

Great For: Families seeking traditional but effective education.

What Makes a Great Primary School in Oyo State?

While all these schools excel in different ways, great primary schools in Oyo State typically offer:

Qualified & Passionate Teachers

Balanced Curriculum (Nigerian or Hybrid)

Safe, Well-Equipped Environment

Moral & Leadership Training

Parent Involvement & Feedback Channels

As a parent, always consider your budget, your child’s personality, and your long-term education goals when making a choice.

FAQs – Best Rated Primary Schools in Oyo State

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

A: Fees range from ₦40,000 to ₦500,000 per term depending on location, curriculum, and facilities.

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

A: Yes. Schools like Lifeforte and LBIS offer optional boarding for older primary pupils.

Q3: Which area in Ibadan has the best concentration of schools?

A: Bodija, Jericho, Ring Road, and Akobo areas have the highest concentration of top schools.

Q4: How do I know a school’s performance?

A: Ask for past Common Entrance results, visit the school, and speak with current parents.

Q5: Can I get discounts or scholarships?

A: Some schools offer early bird discounts or multiple-child packages. Others run internal scholarships for top-performing pupil.

Conclusion

In a state as rich in culture, history, and intellect as Oyo, it’s no surprise that top-rated primary schools continue to thrive. Whether you're seeking international standards, Christian values, or strict academic focus, there's a school in Oyo State that will match your child’s needs and your family’s values.

Remember, the primary level is where it all begins. Don’t just look at popularity—consider structure, discipline, facilities, and most importantly, how your child will thrive in that environment.

Education is not just a destination; it’s a journey. And in Oyo State, that journey can start in the best way possible.