Are you considering a private school in Hertfordshire for your child? There's plenty of choice, with more than 20 senior schools to choose from.
Find out everything you need to know about private schools in Hertfordshire. Learn about fees and financial assistance, exam results, and what's on the entrance exam.
What are the best private schools in Hertfordshire?
The following 5 private senior schools were ranked the best in Hertfordshire in 2024 based on recent exam results. These schools are also ranked within the top 125 private schools in the UK.
- Haberdashers' (Boys & Girls)
- St Albans High School for Girls
- St Albans School
- Haileybury
- Bishop's Stortford College
Learn more about the top private schools in the UK.
How much do private schools cost in Hertfordshire?
Fees for private schools in Hertfordshire vary between schools, but are generally higher than average in the UK. Day fees generally average at around £7,000–£8,000 per term for day pupils. Boarding starts at £8,375 and can be as much as £14,900 per term.
The cheapest private school in Hertfordshire is The King's School in Harpenden. The most expensive private school is Haileybury.
What's included in the school fees?
Independent school fees always include the cost of teaching. Some of the fees which might be charged separately include school lunch and exams (e.g. GCSEs, A levels and the IB Diploma). If your child goes to a boarding school, the fees usually include the full cost of boarding (lodging, meals etc.).
Before you register your child for a school, it's best to check exactly what's included in the fees. You will usually need to pay a non-refundable registration fee on application (often £100–£300) and a deposit when you accept an offer.
Help with school fees in Hertfordshire
Most private schools in Hertfordshire offer financial assistance to children who meet certain criteria. The most common type of assistance is a bursary, which is means-tested. Lots of schools also offer scholarships, but these are based on talent and are not means-tested.
Bursaries
Bursaries are a type of means-tested financial assistance. They're normally offered on a sliding scale, so children from lower-income families receive more support. Eligible children still need to meet the school's entrance criteria.
Most private schools in Hertfordshire offer bursaries, with some covering up to 100% of school fees in exceptional circumstances.
If you think your child might be eligible for a bursary, you'll need to complete a bursary application form for your target school. This will involve supplying detailed financial evidence. You might also have a home visit from a member of the bursary team, or an independent advisor.
Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded to children who show talent in a particular subject or a co-curricular activity. Common scholarships include academic, art, drama, music, and sport.
Many private schools in Hertfordshire offer scholarships. Many come with a financial reward, including up to 50% fee-reduction at some schools.
Academic scholarships are usually awarded based on the results of entrance exams. Co-curricular scholarships are applied for separately. Your child will have extra assessments and/or interviews alongside the main admissions process.
Sibling discounts
Some private schools in Hertfordshire offer discounted fees to families with multiple children attending the same school. Discounts usually range from 5–20%, depending on the number of children in the family.
Armed Forces discount
The Royal Masonic School for Girls, Bishop's Stortford College and Tring Park School for the Performing Arts offer discounts to children who are receiving a Continuity of Education Allowance due to a parent being employed by the Armed Forces.
