Private and Grammar Schools | Hertfordshire
Grammar and private secondary schools in Hertfordshire offer exceptional educational opportunities, celebrated for their high academic standards and selective admissions processes.
In Hertfordshire, grammar schools like Watford Grammar School for Boys and St. Albans High School for Girls are renowned for their tradition of academic excellence. These institutions provide rigorous curricula within supportive environments that nurture both intellectual growth and personal development.
Private schools in Hertfordshire, including St. Albans School and Haberdashers' Aske's Boys' School, offer outstanding educational experiences. St. Albans School is known for its holistic approach to education, combining academic rigor with a diverse range of extracurricular activities. Haberdashers' Aske's Boys' School provides a nurturing environment where students excel academically and socially, supported by dedicated faculty and modern facilities.
Below, you can find an updated list of all the private and grammar schools in Hertfordshire. Click the links below for individual school/admissions information, as well as some free 11 Plus exam papers in a similar style to those the school uses for its admissions test for year 7.
All Private and Grammar Schools in Hertfordshire
St Albans High School for Girls
St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School
The Royal Masonic School for Girls
Abbot’s Hill School
Address: Abbot’s Hill School, Bunkers Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP3 8RP, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1912.
Type Of School: Independent, girls' day school.
Age Range: 4–16 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: ISEB Common Pre-Test.
Notable Features: Abbot’s Hill School, founded in 1912, is known for its nurturing environment and commitment to academic excellence, offering a broad and balanced curriculum alongside a rich program of extracurricular activities, fostering the development of confident, independent, and well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the future.
Resources:
Abbot’s Hill School – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
Aldenham School
Address: Aldenham School, Elstree, Hertfordshire, WD6 3AJ, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1597.
Type Of School: Independent, co-educational day and boarding school.
Age Range: 3–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own exam testing English and maths.
Notable Features: Aldenham School, founded in 1597, offers a dynamic and inclusive educational environment with a strong focus on academic excellence, character development, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, fostering the growth of well-rounded individuals who are prepared for success in higher education and beyond.
Resources:
Aldenham School – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
Berkhamsted School
Address: Berkhamsted School, Castle Street, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 2BB, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1541.
Type Of School: Independent, co-educational day and boarding school.
Age Range: 3–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: ISEB Common Pre-Test.
Notable Features: Berkhamsted School, founded in 1541, combines a rich history with a modern approach to education, offering a vibrant and inclusive community where students are encouraged to excel academically, develop their talents, and contribute positively to society, preparing them for success in a rapidly changing world.
Resources:
Berkhamsted School – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
Bishop's Stortford College
Address: Bishop's Stortford College, 10 Maze Green Road, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23 2PJ, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1868.
Type Of School: Independent, co-educational day and boarding school.
Age Range: 4–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own exam testing English, maths and verbal reasoning.
Notable Features: Bishop's Stortford College, founded in 1868, offers a supportive and enriching educational environment with a strong focus on academic excellence, character development, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, fostering the growth of well-rounded individuals who are prepared for success in higher education and beyond.
Resources:
Bishop's Stortford College – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
Dame Alice Owen’s School
Address: Dame Alice Owen's School, Dugdale Hill Lane, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 2DU, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1613.
Type Of School: Selective, co-educational day school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own exam testing English, maths and verbal reasoning.
Notable Features: Dame Alice Owen’s School, founded in 1613, boasts a rich heritage of academic excellence, providing students with a supportive and stimulating environment where they can excel academically, develop their talents, and become well-rounded individuals ready to make a positive contribution to society.
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Haberdashers' Boys' School
Address: Haberdashers' Boys' School, Aldenham Road, Elstree, Hertfordshire, WD6 3BT, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1690.
Type Of School: Independent, boys' day school.
Age Range: 4–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: CEM Select.
Notable Features: Haberdashers' Boys' School, established in 1690, is renowned for its tradition of academic excellence and holistic education, providing a supportive and nurturing environment where boys can thrive intellectually, personally, and socially, preparing them for success in their future endeavours.
Resources:
Haberdashers' Boys' School – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
Haberdashers' Girls' School
Address: Haberdashers' Girls' School, Aldenham Road, Elstree, Hertfordshire, WD6 3BT, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1875.
Type Of School: Independent, girls' day school.
Age Range: 4–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own exam testing English and maths.
Notable Features: Haberdashers' Girls' School, established in 1875, is known for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development, providing a supportive and stimulating environment where girls can flourish academically, socially, and personally, empowering them to become confident and compassionate leaders in their chosen fields.
Resources:
Haberdashers' Girls' School – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
Haileybury School
Address: Haileybury School, Hertford Heath, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG13 7NU, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1862.
Type Of School: Independent, co-educational day and boarding school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: CAT4.
Notable Features: Haileybury School, established in 1862, offers a rich and diverse educational experience with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, character development, and global citizenship, providing students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Resources:
Haileybury School – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
Immanuel College
Address: Immanuel College, Elstree Road, Bushey, Hertfordshire, WD23 4EB, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1990.
Type Of School: Independent, co-educational day school.
Age Range: 4–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: GL Assessment testing English, maths and reasoning.
Notable Features: Immanuel College, established in 1990, is committed to providing a high-quality education rooted in Jewish values, fostering academic excellence, personal development, and a strong sense of community among its students, preparing them to become responsible and compassionate leaders in society.
Resources:
Immanuel College – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
Mill Hill County High School
Address: Mill Hill County High School, Worcester Crescent, Mill Hill, London, NW7 4LL, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1958.
Type Of School: State-funded, co-educational secondary school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: GL Assessment testing reasoning.
Notable Features: Mill Hill County High School, established in 1958, prides itself on its commitment to academic excellence, inclusive ethos, and supportive learning environment, providing students with a well-rounded education and opportunities to excel both academically and personally.
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Mount House School
Address: Mount House School, Worcester Crescent, Mill Hill, London, NW7 4LL, United Kingdom.
Founded: 2009.
Type Of School: Independent, co-educational day school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own exam testing English, maths and non-verbal reasoning.
Notable Features: Mount House School, established in 2009, offers a modern and supportive learning environment with a focus on academic excellence, character development, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.
Resources:
Mount House School – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
Parmiter’s School
Address: Parmiter's School, High Elms Lane, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD25 0UU, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1724.
Type Of School: State-funded, co-educational secondary school.
Age Range: 11-18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: GL Assessment.
Notable Features: Parmiter's School, founded in 1724, is known for its strong academic tradition, supportive learning environment, and emphasis on holistic education, providing students with opportunities to excel academically, develop their talents, and contribute positively to their communities.
Resources:
Queenswood
Address: Queenswood, Shepherd's Way, Brookmans Park, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 6NS, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1894.
Type Of School: Independent, girls' day and boarding school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own exam or ISEB Common Pre-Test.
Notable Features: Queenswood, established in 1894, prides itself on its strong academic reputation, supportive community, and commitment to holistic education, providing girls with opportunities to excel academically, develop their talents, and grow into confident and compassionate individuals ready to make a positive impact in the world.
Resources:
Queenswood – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
Queen Elizabeth’s School
Address: Queen Elizabeth's School, Barnet Lane, Barnet, Hertfordshire, EN5 4DQ, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1573.
Type Of School: State-funded, boys' grammar school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: GL Assessment.
Notable Features: Queen Elizabeth's School, founded in 1573, is renowned for its academic excellence and tradition of scholarship, providing a rigorous and supportive learning environment where boys can excel academically, develop their talents, and become well-rounded individuals prepared for future success.
Resources:
Queen’s School Bushey
Address: Queen's School, Aldenham Road, Bushey, Hertfordshire, WD23 2TY, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1925.
Type Of School: Independent, girls' day school.
Age Range: 3–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: GL Assessment.
Notable Features: Queen's School, established in 1925, is known for its commitment to academic excellence, holistic education, and nurturing environment, providing girls with opportunities to thrive academically, develop their talents, and grow into confident and compassionate individuals ready to make a positive impact in the world.
Resources:
Rickmansworth School
Address: Rickmansworth School, Scots Hill, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, WD3 3AQ, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1910.
Type Of School: State-funded, co-educational secondary school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: GL Assessment.
Notable Features: Rickmansworth School, established in 1910, is committed to providing a high-quality education that fosters academic achievement, personal development, and a strong sense of community among its students, preparing them for future success in a rapidly changing world.
Resources:
Sherradswood School
Address: Sherrardswood School, Lockleys, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6 0BJ, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1928.
Type Of School: Independent, co-educational day school.
Age Range: 2–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own exam testing English, maths and science.
Notable Features: Sherrardswood School, founded in 1928, offers a nurturing and supportive environment where students are encouraged to excel academically, develop their talents, and grow into well-rounded individuals with a strong sense of community and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Resources:
Sherradswood School – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
St Albans High School for Girls
Address: St Albans High School for Girls, Townsend Avenue, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3SJ, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1889.
Type Of School: Independent, girls' day school.
Age Range: 4–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: ISEB Common Pre-Test.
Notable Features: St Albans High School for Girls, established in 1889, is renowned for its academic excellence, supportive community, and commitment to empowering girls to reach their full potential, providing a well-rounded education that nurtures intellectual curiosity, creativity, and leadership skills.
Resources:
St Albans High School for Girls – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
St Albans School
Address: St Albans School, Abbey Gateway, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4HB, United Kingdom.
Founded: 948.
Type Of School: Independent, boys' day school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own exam testing English, maths and verbal reasoning.
Notable Features: St Albans School, with origins dating back to 948, holds a rich tradition of academic excellence and character development, providing boys with a supportive and stimulating environment where they can thrive academically, culturally, and personally, preparing them for leadership and service in a global society.
Resources:
St Albans School – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
St Clement Danes School
Address: St Clement Danes School, Chenies Road, Chorleywood, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, WD3 6EW, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1862.
Type Of School: State-funded, co-educational secondary school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: GL Assessment.
Notable Features: St Clement Danes School, established in 1862, is committed to providing a high-quality education that promotes academic achievement, personal development, and social responsibility among its students, fostering a supportive and inclusive community where every individual is encouraged to excel and succeed.
Resources:
St Columba's College
Address: St Columba's College, King Harry Lane, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4AW, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1939.
Type Of School: Independent, boys' day school.
Age Range: 4–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own exam testing English, maths and reasoning.
Notable Features: St Columba's College, founded in 1939, is dedicated to providing a holistic education rooted in Catholic values, fostering academic excellence, personal development, and a sense of service among its students, preparing them to become compassionate and responsible leaders in their communities.
Resources:
St Columba's College – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
St Christopher School
Address: St Christopher School, Barrington Road, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire, SG6 3JZ, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1915.
Type Of School: Independent, co-educational day and boarding school.
Age Range: 3–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own English exam and CAT4.
Notable Features: St Christopher School, established in 1915, offers a progressive and inclusive educational experience that emphasizes academic excellence, creative expression, and personal development, fostering a supportive community where students are encouraged to explore their interests and passions in preparation for a fulfilling and successful future.
Resources:
St Christopher School – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
St Edmund's College
Address: St Edmund's College, Old Hall Green, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG11 1DS, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1568.
Type Of School: Independent, boys' day and boarding school.
Age Range: 3–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: CEM Select.
Notable Features: St Edmund's College, founded in 1568, combines a rich heritage with a modern approach to education, offering a supportive and inclusive environment where boys can excel academically, develop their talents, and grow into confident and compassionate individuals, ready to make a positive impact in the world.
Resources:
St Edmund's College – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
St Francis' College
Address: St Francis' College, Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire, SG6 3PJ, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1933.
Type Of School: Independent, girls' day and boarding school.
Age Range: 3–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own exam testing English, maths and verbal reasoning.
Notable Features: St Francis' College, established in 1933, is dedicated to providing a supportive and nurturing environment where girls can thrive academically, socially, and personally, offering a broad and balanced curriculum, excellent pastoral care, and a wide range of extracurricular activities to foster their all-round development and prepare them for future success.
Resources:
St Francis' College – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
St Margaret's School
Address: St Margaret's School, Merry Hill Road, Bushey, Hertfordshire, WD23 1DT, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1749.
Type Of School: Independent, girls' day and boarding school.
Age Range: 4–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: CEM Select.
Notable Features: St Margaret's School, founded in 1749, offers a blend of tradition and innovation, providing a supportive and inclusive environment where girls receive a well-rounded education, emphasizing academic excellence, personal growth, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities to prepare them for future success.
Resources:
St Margaret's School – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School
Address: St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School, Nether Street, North Finchley, London, N12 7NJ, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1908.
Type Of School: State-funded, girls' grammar school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: GL Assessment.
Notable Features: St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School, established in 1908, is known for its strong academic performance, faith-based education, and supportive community, providing a nurturing environment where girls are encouraged to achieve their full potential and develop into confident, compassionate individuals.
Resources:
Stanborough School Guide
Address: Stanborough School, Lemsford Lane, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL8 6YR, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1919.
Type Of School: Independent, co-educational day and boarding school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: School's own exam testing English, maths and science.
Notable Features: Stanborough School, founded in 1919, offers a balanced education with a focus on academic excellence, character development, and community values, providing a nurturing and inclusive environment where students can thrive and prepare for future challenges.
Resources:
Stanborough School Guide – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
The Royal Masonic School for Girls
Address: The Royal Masonic School for Girls, Rickmansworth Park, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, WD3 4HF, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1788.
Type Of School: Independent, girls' day and boarding school.
Age Range: 2–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: CEM Select.
Notable Features: The Royal Masonic School for Girls, founded in 1788, offers a blend of tradition and innovation with a strong focus on academic excellence, character development, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, creating a supportive and empowering environment for girls to thrive and succeed.
Resources:
The Royal Masonic School for Girls – 11 Plus Entrance Exam Information
Watford Grammar School for Boys
Address: Watford Grammar School for Boys, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 7JF, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1704.
Type Of School: State-funded, boys' grammar school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: GL Assessment.
Notable Features: Watford Grammar School for Boys, established in 1704, boasts a rich history of academic excellence and a commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. The school provides a rigorous academic curriculum alongside a diverse range of extracurricular activities, fostering a supportive environment where boys can thrive intellectually, socially, and personally.
Resources:
Watford Grammar School for Girls
Address: Watford Grammar School for Girls, Lady's Close, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0AE, United Kingdom.
Founded: 1704.
Type Of School: State-funded, girls' grammar school.
Age Range: 11–18 years old.
Entrance Exam Type: GL Assessment.
Notable Features: Watford Grammar School for Girls, established in 1704, upholds a longstanding tradition of academic excellence and holistic education. The school provides a supportive and stimulating environment where girls are encouraged to excel academically, develop their talents, and become confident and compassionate individuals prepared for future success.
Resources: