The Hertfordshire & Essex High School and Science College
Bishop's Stortford, CM23 5NJ · Hertfordshire · secondary school
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11th of 78 secondary schools in Hertfordshire we can score, 82 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 251 schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 4.4/10 among them, against 9.1/10 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ofsted | 94 | 35% | 3.29 |
| Grade 5+ English & maths 2025/26 | 70.4 · 91 | 30% | 2.72 |
| Progress 8 2023/24 | 0.65 · 89 | 25% | 2.23 |
| Attainment 8 2025/26 | 62.0 · 94 | 10% | 0.94 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
The Hertfordshire & Essex High School and Science College overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 75.7% of pupils achieved grade 5 or above in English and maths. Attainment 8 was 63.6, compared to the national median of 44.6. Progress 8 was +0.65 in 2023/24, indicating better progress than pupils nationally who started from the same place. Ofsted rated the school Outstanding in January 2024. Narrow the comparison to the schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 5.0 out of 10 among them, against 9.2 out of 10 nationally.
Getting in
The published school roll is 1,508 pupils against a stated capacity of 1,360. 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
What support is available for pupils aiming to improve their Progress 8 scores? How does the admissions process work for new entrants given the current over-capacity status?
What Ofsted said about The Hertfordshire & Essex High School and Science College
Overview
The report describes an "exceptional school" where the motto of ‘Excellence for All’ permeates every aspect of provision. Pupils consistently meet high expectations, excelling academically and in wider school life within a "calm and purposeful atmosphere." The inspection judged all key areas, including overall effectiveness, to be outstanding.
Strengths
- The curriculum is "ambitious and well-constructed," with recent enhancements like new vocational pathways helping pupils pursue diverse aspirations.
- Teachers demonstrate "expert knowledge" and use regular assessment to adapt teaching, effectively closing learning gaps and addressing misconceptions.
- Reading is a "whole-school priority," with a vibrant library and early identification of pupils who struggle, boosting their confidence and enjoyment.
- Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive high-quality teaching and effective support, enabling them to "achieve highly."
- Behaviour is "exemplary" and attitudes are "exceptional," with pupils showing resilience, kindness, and a strong sense of community through peer mentoring.
Areas to improve
- The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.
Safeguarding
The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective," noting an open and positive culture that puts pupils’ interests first.
Results over time
Attainment 8, the years we hold.
| Year | Attainment 8 |
|---|---|
| 2023/24 | 63.3 |
| 2024/25 | 63.6 |
| 2025/26 | 62.0 |
| England | 44.9 |
Source: DfE Explore Education Statistics. “England” is the median of the 3,682 state schools in England we hold a 2025/26 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
- Secondary application deadline31 Oct 2026
- Secondary National Offer Day1 Mar 2027
- Secondary application deadline31 Oct 2027
- Secondary National Offer Day1 Mar 2028
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