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Hertfordshire 11+ prep

Grammar schools in Hertfordshire: Watford and beyond

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.

Child preparing for Hertfordshire grammar school 11 Plus exam in Watford
GL
Test format
Watford
Main grammar area
Top rated
Nationally

Hertfordshire grammar schools to research

Hertfordshire's state grammar schools are located primarily in Watford, with additional independent selective schools across the county.

  • โœ“Watford Grammar School for Boys โ€” consistently top 100 nationally
  • โœ“Watford Grammar School for Girls โ€” strong academic results
  • โœ“Richard Hale School โ€” partially selective, Hertford
  • โœ“Presdales School โ€” partially selective, Ware

Preparing for the Hertfordshire 11+

Hertfordshire grammar schools use GL Assessment papers. Verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning need dedicated practice alongside Maths and English.

  • โœ“Timed mock practice across all four areas
  • โœ“Strong vocabulary from regular reading
  • โœ“Maths reasoning beyond KS2 curriculum
  • โœ“Regular non-verbal pattern drills

Practical plan

Hertfordshire 11+ preparation path

Step 1

Start Year 5: reading habits, vocabulary and maths fluency.

Step 2

Summer Year 6: full mock practice twice weekly.

Step 3

September: Hertfordshire 11+ test โ€” confirm registration dates.

Step 4

October onwards: review and prepare for any further assessments.

Frequently asked questions

How do I register for Hertfordshire grammar schools?

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.

Are Watford Grammar schools faith schools?

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.

Can we apply from outside Hertfordshire?

Yes, out-of-county families can apply but may rank lower under oversubscription criteria that prioritise Hertfordshire residents.