Watford Grammar Schools are among the top-performing state schools nationally.
Hertfordshire has a small number of state grammar schools, with Watford Grammar School for Boys and Watford Grammar School for Girls being the most prominent. These schools consistently rank highly nationally and attract strong competition from across the county and beyond.
Hertfordshire's state grammar schools are located primarily in Watford, with additional independent selective schools across the county.
Hertfordshire grammar schools use GL Assessment papers. Verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning need dedicated practice alongside Maths and English.
Practical plan
Start Year 5: reading habits, vocabulary and maths fluency.
Summer Year 6: full mock practice twice weekly.
September: Hertfordshire 11+ test — confirm registration dates.
October onwards: review and prepare for any further assessments.
Register your child for the 11+ through Hertfordshire County Council's secondary transfer process. Deadlines are usually in the summer of Year 5. Check the official Herts Council website.
Both Watford Grammar schools have a Church of England foundation and give priority to practising Christian families in some oversubscription categories. Check current admissions criteria.
Yes, out-of-county families can apply but may rank lower under oversubscription criteria that prioritise Hertfordshire residents.