Admissions

From First Enquiry to First Day

Finding the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. We understand that choosing an independent education represents a significant investment in your child’s future, and we’re here to help you discover whether our welcoming school community is the perfect fit for your family.

In an area of excellent independent and state schools, we believe Abbot’s Hill stands out for its relentless focus on balance, on ensuring that each pupil achieves the very best they can academically, but not at the expense of everything else. Our school culture is collaborative rather than competitive, and our students leave us happy, well-rounded and confident, and most importantly, prepared for the next phase in their education.

Our admissions process is all about spotting potential — and we know it comes in many wonderful shapes and sizes. We’re looking for children with a genuine curiosity and a real love of learning, as well as passions and interests that stretch beyond the classroom — whether that’s sport, music, drama, art, debating, or getting stuck into their community.

We also understand that it is not “just” your child who is joining our school; it is your whole family. We are a happy, friendly and inclusive school that will welcome your whole family into our family. Our Parents’ Association, the AHSPA, is a thriving organisation dedicated to raising funds and organising a whole raft of social events throughout the year to bring our community together.

While our application process is now online, the same personal touch, friendliness and commitment to supporting families remains at the heart of what we do. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have — from the exciting opportunities available to practical details about assessments, fees, and financial assistance.

We warmly invite you to explore our Admissions Information Booklet below, join us at one of our Open Events, or arrange a personalised tour. There’s no better way to experience Abbot’s Hill firsthand, meet our staff and pupils, and discover the vibrant, supportive community your child could be part of.

Don’t just take our word for it — come and see for yourself what makes Abbot’s Hill so special.

If my team or I can help in any way, please don’t hesitate to get in touch — we’re always just a phone call away.

Pippa Hopkins
Head of Admissions

Meet the Admissions Team

Mrs Pippa Hopkins

Position:

Head of Marketing and Admissions

Qualifications:

BA (Hons)

Pippa Hopkins joined Abbot’s Hill in 2025 as Head of Marketing and Admissions. She has over 10 years’ experience in independent school marketing and admissions, having worked previously in one local 4-18 girls’ school, two prep schools and at the Head Office of a group of schools. She is a Governor of another independent prep school, previously served as Chair of Governors at a local state primary school, and is an alumna of another local independent school!

Prior to her move into school marketing and admissions, Pippa had a career in the travel industry, working throughout Australia, New Zealand, Asia and the Caribbean. She is mother to three university students and loves nothing more than going for walks with her very needy cocker spaniel.

Your Child’s Abbot’s Hill Journey Starts Here

At Abbot’s Hill, we believe every child has unique talents waiting to be discovered and nurtured. Our Admissions process is designed to understand your child as an individual – their interests, learning style, and aspirations – so we can show you exactly how they would thrive in our supportive and challenging environment.

We pride ourselves on maintaining a welcoming, inclusive community where academic excellence goes hand in hand with personal development. Our pupils don’t just achieve outstanding results; they develop the confidence, creativity, and character that will serve them throughout their lives.

Click on the links below to explore our key entry points to the School:

We sometimes have occasional places in other year groups and are happy to receive an application for a prospective pupil at any stage, and can facilitate starts mid way through an academic year, to fit in with family relocations etc.

Your Next Steps

We’d love to meet you and your child, and show you firsthand what makes Abbot’s Hill unique in this area. There’s no substitute for experiencing our warm, vibrant community atmosphere and seeing our pupils engaged in learning.

Ready to explore your child’s future with us?

Book a personal tour – Visit during a normal school day to see our pupils and teachers in action and to meet with our Head, Mrs Schanschieff
Attend our next Open Event – Meet staff and pupils in a relaxed setting
Arrange an informal chat – Speak with our Admissions team about your child’s specific needs and interests and ask any questions about the Admissions process

Contact our friendly Admissions Team today

Call: 01442 240333
Email: admissions@abbotshill.herts.sch.uk
Online: Complete our enquiry form

We look forward to welcoming your family to the Abbot’s Hill family!

"We are truly thankful for and impressed by the professionalism and support shown throughout the admissions process - our child never felt like a number; staff remembered even the smallest details about his interests - and even his birthday party! They genuinely made us feel important and cared for - a stark difference from some other schools we had visited!
Prospective Parent

Admissions Frequently Asked Questions

When should I apply for a place at Abbot's Hill?

We recommend applying at least 12-18 months before your child’s intended start date. Our main entry points are September for Reception, Year 3, Year 7, and Year 9, though we welcome applications throughout the year into all year groups, subject to space availability.

Prospective pupils for Year 7 entry will sit 11+ assessments in the November preceding their entry to the school.

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

Please complete the Abbot’s Hill Registration Form, and your child’s most recent school report if available, a copy of their passport (or birth certificate if the child does not hold a passport), and the non-refundable Registration Fee (£120).

What does the assessment process involve?

Our assessment is designed to understand your child’s potential rather than test specific knowledge.

Prospective Pre-Prep pupils typically participate in informal activities and observation sessions, while those looking for a place in the Prep School (Year 3 to 6) will sit assessments in Maths and English during the course of a Taster Day with us.

11+ candidates will sit their 11+ entrance examinations in the November preceding entry in September the following year, and attend an interview with a member of the Senior Leadership Team in core subjects and attend an interview.

Pupils applying for a place in Year 8,9, or 10 will typically spend two days in school during which they will follow a typical timetable for the year group, as well as sitting CAT Maths, English and Reasoning assessments.

Can my child prepare for the entrance assessments?

We encourage children to be well-rested and confident rather than intensively tutored. Sample papers for older pupils and guidance notes may available, but we are really looking for potential and enthusiasm for learning rather than coached responses.

What are the school fees?

Current fee information is available here. Fees cover tuition, most textbooks, and many co-curricular activities. Additional costs include lunches, music lessons, and some educational visits.

Do you offer scholarships or bursaries?

We offer academic, music, art & design, drama, and sports scholarships at 11+ entry, typically providing fee remissions of between 10% and 20%.

Our Bursary programme (usually restricted to the Senior School) can provide means-tested support of up to 100% fee remission for families who would benefit from our education but require financial assistance. Click here for more information.

What is your approach to pastoral care?

Every pupil belongs to a Clan (a nod to our Scottish roots) and the School dedicated pastoral staff who monitor every pupil’s academic progress, wellbeing, and personal development.

We maintain small class sizes and foster close relationships between staff and pupils to ensure individual needs are met.

What co-curricular activities do you offer?

We pride ourselves on our extensive co-curricular programme in both the Prep and the Senior schools, of sports, arts, music, drama, and academic clubs. Pupils can participate in everything from lacrosse and netball to debating, Duke of Edinburgh Award, and volunteering, with many activities available at both recreational and competitive levels.

How do you support pupils with special educational needs?

We welcome pupils with a range of learning differences and provide tailored support through our Learning Support Department. We conduct thorough assessments and work closely with families and external specialists to ensure every child can thrive academically and socially.

What are your school hours?

The school day typically runs from 8.15am to 4.20pm for senior pupils (with the exception of Wednesdays when school finishes at 4.05pm), with younger children finishing at 3.20pm (Pre Prep) and 3.45pm (Prep).

We offer supervised prep sessions and a wide range of after-school activities until 5.30 PM.

Do you provide school transport?

We operate a network of school buses covering key areas around the school. Full route information and costs are available from the School Office.

What happens if my child has specific dietary requirements?

Our Catering Team can accommodate most dietary requirements, including allergies, religious needs, and lifestyle choices. We ask families to inform us of any requirements during the application process so we can make appropriate arrangements.

What uniform is required?

Full uniform lists are provided upon acceptance, with items available from our approved supplier, School Blazer.

Our Parents’ Association also holds regular Pre-Loved Uniform Sales.

How can I arrange a school visit?

We warmly welcome prospective families to visit during our regular Open Days or to arrange individual tours. Please contact our Admissions team to book your visit – we’re delighted to show you around and answer any questions you may have about our school community.

Nursery

Parents wishing to enroll their child into our Nursery are strongly encouraged to book a visit, as places are limited.

Pre-Prep

Most children join us in Reception, although, subject to availability, we may be able to offer places throughout our pre-prep.

Prep

Year 3 is a key entry point, but again, if places are available, we can accept applications for Years 4 to 6.

Senior

Our main points of entry are Year 7 and Year 9, but, subject to availability, we are able to offer places throughout the Senior School.

Visit Us

There are many ways to get a taste of life at Abbot’s Hill – whatever you choose, you can be sure of a warm welcome. We are very proud of everything that goes on each day in our classrooms, outside in the 76 acres of parkland and through our extensive co-curricular programme, and our pupils are always keen to meet prospective families and chat about their experiences at school. We know that our pupils are our very best ambassadors!

Explore