Abel Smith School
Hertford, SG13 8AE · Hertfordshire · primary school
Check the area around this school
97th of 337 primary schools in Hertfordshire we can score, 398 in total — the rest without enough published data. Local and same-phase on purpose: a national table mostly measures who attends.
Narrow the comparison to the 3,942 schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 3.5/10 among them, against 5.0/10 nationally. Both figures are results only, without the inspection grade. A lower figure here means a stronger comparison group, not a weaker school.
How this is worked out
| Measure | Percentile | Weight | Adds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expected standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 55.0 · 27 | 40% | 1.10 |
| Ofsted | 96 | 35% | 3.37 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 17.0 · 87 | 25% | 2.18 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Abel Smith School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 55.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared with the national median of 64%. For the higher standard, 17.0% achieved it, against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Outstanding in September 2024. Narrow the comparison to the schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 3.5 out of 10 among them, against 5.0 out of 10 nationally.
Beyond the classroom
Pupils can join boxing, dance, skateboarding, netball, football, multi skills, gymnastics, and tennis clubs. The school also provides a breakfast club and an after-school club.
Getting in
The published school roll is 226 pupils against a stated capacity of 240. These whole-school figures do not establish entry-year vacancies or the likelihood of an offer. Confirm entry-year availability and admissions criteria with the school or local authority.
Worth asking on a visit
How does the school support pupils to bridge the gap between the expected and higher standards? What specific support is available for children who need extra help in maths? How are the various sports clubs scheduled to ensure all pupils can participate?
What Ofsted said about Abel Smith School
Overview
The report describes a school where pupils are “extremely proud” and “aspirational for their futures.” Leaders and governors work in harmony to uphold a cohesive vision, resulting in a “calm and orderly” environment that supports exceptional learning and personal development.
Strengths
- The curriculum is “meticulously well structured,” enabling teachers to impart expert subject knowledge so pupils show a “deep understanding” and are “articulate.”
- Pupils behave “exceptionally well,” creating a “positive school environment” where they are “considerate and respectful to others.”
- Reading is a high priority, with a “carefully crafted phonics programme” ensuring pupils become “confident, fluent readers.”
- The school provides “outstanding support” for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), actively promoting their independence and self-confidence.
- Staff receive “high-quality training” and staff well-being is a “high priority,” contributing to a cohesive approach to education.
Areas to improve
The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.
Safeguarding
The report states that “the arrangements for safeguarding are effective.”
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 73% |
| 2023/24 | 73% |
| 2024/25 | 55% |
| England | 64% |
Source: DfE Explore Education Statistics. “England” is the median of the 14,326 state schools in England we hold a 2024/25 figure for — a school-level median, not the DfE's pupil-weighted national figure.
Your offer chance
—Based on official applications/offers, distance and catchment where we have it. Bands only — never a percentage.
Sibling, faith, looked-after and other criteria can override distance. Always confirm with the school or local authority.
Next dates
- Primary (Reception) application deadline15 Jan 2027
- Primary National Offer Day16 Apr 2027
- Primary (Reception) application deadline15 Jan 2028
- Primary National Offer Day17 Apr 2028
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