South Hill Primary School
Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1TT · Hertfordshire · primary school
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215th 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.
Its results hold up when the comparison narrows to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — 4.1/10 against 3,014 of them, against 4.0/10 nationally. So this is not simply a reflection of who attends. 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 | 53.0 · 24 | 40% | 0.96 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 10.0 · 66 | 25% | 1.65 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
South Hill Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 53.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared with a national median of 64%. For the higher standard, 10.0% achieved it against a national median of 7%. Its position is much the same whether compared with all schools or only those whose pupils have similar backgrounds (4.1 out of 10 against similar schools, 4.0 out of 10 against all schools). Ofsted rated the school Good in September 2024.
Beyond the classroom
Pupils join clubs including Morning Games, Game On football, netball, basketball, street dance and rounders. Sports activities cover swimming, cross-country, athletics, the Daily Mile and orienteering. Arts and music involve art competitions, a whole school gallery, Young Voices, carol services and year group productions. An after-school club is available.
Getting in
The published school roll is 417 pupils against a stated capacity of 420. 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 curriculum support pupils who are below the expected standard in maths? What does the daily timetable look like for a child joining the after-school club?
What Ofsted said about South Hill Primary School
Overview
South Hill Primary School continues to be a good school, providing a nurturing environment where well-being is central to the culture. Pupils are described as happy, safe, and ready to learn, developing strong relationships with staff and peers that support high behavioural expectations. The school offers a broad, ambitious curriculum with robust support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
Strengths
- The curriculum is "well-sequenced" and clearly sets out key knowledge, including subject-specific vocabulary, from early years to Year 6.
- Pupils demonstrate "positive attitudes in lessons," showing resilience by using resources and helping each other when stuck.
- Reading is a strength, with consistent phonics teaching from Reception and a "buzz of reading" involving parents and enthusiastic older pupils.
- The school has "robust systems" to quickly identify and support pupils with SEND, ensuring they progress well with tailored plans.
- Staff well-being is prioritised by leaders, and governors effectively challenge and support school leaders through regular visits.
Areas to improve
- Teachers do not always check accurately what pupils know and understand, failing to "identify precisely gaps in what pupils know and understand."
- Consequently, some pupils struggle to recall knowledge needed for complex concepts; the school must ensure staff use assessment effectively to adapt teaching and planning.
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 | 53% |
| 2023/24 | 59% |
| 2024/25 | 53% |
| 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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