
Local Scene Spotlight
Berkhamsted isn’t just about its charming high street and countryside — it’s also a top choice for families, offering great access to state, private, and grammar schools. Here’s a quick guide to help you explore the educational options in the area.
📚 State School Options
Primary Schools
Families with young children are well-served by several state-funded primary schools in and around Berkhamsted, including:
Bridgewater Primary School
Greenway Primary and Nursery School
St Thomas More Catholic Primary School
Victoria Church of England Infant and Nursery School
Swing Gate Infant School and Nursery
Thomas Coram Church of England School
These schools are generally well-regarded and often sit at the heart of their local communities.
Secondary School
There is one main state secondary school directly serving Berkhamsted:
Ashlyns School – A popular co-educational secondary school and sixth form with a rich history and strong local reputation.
🏫 Independent (Private) Schooling
For those exploring the independent school sector, Berkhamsted and the surrounding area offer several well-established options, particularly for preparatory-level education:
Prep Schools Nearby Include:
Westbrook Hay Preparatory School (Hemel Hempstead)
Lockers Park School (Hemel Hempstead)
Beechwood Park School (Markyate)
York House School (Croxley Green)
These schools typically serve children from early years through to age 11 or 13, with a strong emphasis on academic preparation and extracurricular development.
Secondary Private School:
Berkhamsted School – A prominent independent school offering co-educational learning from ages 3 through to 18. It’s known for its academic achievement, modern facilities, and long-standing heritage in the town.
🎓 Grammar School Options
While Berkhamsted itself does not have its own grammar school, families in the area do have access to grammar school options in neighbouring towns, most notably:
Chesham Grammar School – A selective state secondary school, reachable from Berkhamsted and popular among local families aiming for a grammar route.
Admission to grammar schools typically requires children to sit the 11+ entrance exam, and competition can be strong — but it remains a valuable pathway for many.
🏠 Why It Matters
Access to a variety of schooling options is one of the many reasons families are drawn to Berkhamsted. Whether you’re looking for a nurturing local primary, a high-achieving independent school, or the potential of a grammar school place, the town offers flexibility and choice.
Thinking of relocating to Berkhamsted or the surrounding villages? We’re always here to help guide you through your move — schools included.