11+ in Hertfordshire: Grammar Schools & Preparation Guide
Hertfordshire is home to several selective and partially selective secondary schools, including the highly competitive Watford Grammar Schools and Dame Alice Owen's. This guide covers the schools, the exam format, and how to prepare.
Selective & Partially Selective Schools in Hertfordshire
Hertfordshire operates a partially selective system for most schools — meaning a percentage of places (typically 25%) are allocated by academic ability, while the remainder are allocated by distance or faith criteria. The two Watford Grammar Schools are fully selective and among the most competitive in the Home Counties.
Watford Grammar School for Boys
Watford
Selective grammarWatford Grammar School for Girls
Watford
Selective grammarSt Clement Danes School
Chorleywood
Partially selectiveRickmansworth School
Rickmansworth
Partially selectiveDame Alice Owen's School
Potters Bar
Partially selectiveParmiters School
Garston
Partially selectiveVerulam School
St Albans
Partially selectiveDr Challoner's Grammar School
Little Chalfont (Bucks border)
Selective grammarThe Hertfordshire 11+ Exam Format
GL Assessment — Verbal Reasoning
Hertfordshire selective schools use the GL Assessment Verbal Reasoning paper. This covers all 21 GL question types (A–U). High-frequency topics include synonyms (Type A), antonyms (Type B), word analogies (Type E), homophones (Type G), hidden words (Type L), and coded sequences (Types S–T). A strong vocabulary is the single biggest advantage.
English
An English paper tests comprehension, vocabulary in context, spelling, punctuation and grammar. Children should be reading widely — fiction and non-fiction — to build the reading stamina and vocabulary range required.
Mathematics
A GL Assessment Maths paper covering Year 5/6 curriculum content plus extension topics. Word problems, ratio, fractions, shape and data are commonly tested.
Key Dates & Registration
Registration: Typically opens May–July of Year 5. Check each school's admissions page as dates vary.
Test Date: Most Hertfordshire selective schools test in September of Year 6 (often the first Saturday).
Results: Usually released in October of Year 6, ahead of the secondary school application deadline in October/November.
Secondary Application: Hertfordshire uses the national secondary transfer deadline (31 October) for grammar school preferences.
Preparation Tips for Hertfordshire 11+
Start Early
The Watford Grammar Schools are highly competitive. Start systematic verbal reasoning practice in Year 4 at the latest.
Vocabulary First
GL Verbal Reasoning heavily rewards children with a wide vocabulary. Use game-based vocabulary practice daily.
Know the 21 Types
GL assessment uses a fixed set of 21 question types. Learning and drilling each type removes surprises on test day.
Timed Practice
GL papers are time-pressured. From Spring of Year 5 onwards, practise answering questions under timed conditions.
Prepare for Hertfordshire 11+ with 11PlusQuest
All 21 GL Verbal Reasoning question types. 500+ vocabulary words. Adaptive difficulty. Designed for children aged 8–11 preparing for selective entry.
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