Hemel Hempstead school named as best in the country by trusted parental guide

In its upcoming ‘Parent Power Guide 2026’ The Sunday Times has named Abbot’s Hill School as its best independent school for 11-16-year-olds.

Sharon Schanschieff, head at Abbot’s Hill School, said: “I am absolutely delighted and immensely proud that Abbot’s Hill has been named Independent 11–16 School of the Year. While this award recognises the exceptional achievements of our senior school, it is important to remember that our school journey begins at just six months old. Pupils throughout the entire school benefit from our rich, whole-school educational offer that builds progressively towards GCSEs. This award is a testament to the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our students, and the unwavering support of our parents and wider community. It captures the balance of high ambition and genuine warmth that characterises our supportive community, and it is an honour to see our school recognised in this way.”

The school has also recently announced plans to start classes for boys at its secondary school. A spokesperson for the school said the decision was made to meet “rising demand”.

The school’s continued decision not to have a sixth form is said to be a ‘conscious’ choice which benefits its students.

“It’s a chance for our pupils to embrace change in a supported way; an important step before facing the bigger leap at 18. Because we don’t have a sixth form, by Year 11, our pupils are leaders in the school,” said Ms Schanschieff.

"They take on meaningful roles, such as Head Girl or Prefect. They mentor younger students, lead productions, and represent the school at public events.”

The Sunday Times’ upcoming edition for 2026 is the 33rd annual schools guide the major national newspaper has produced. It has been revealed that ahead of the 28-page supplement being released on Sunday, that Abbot’s Hill School is one of its national chart-toppers.

The guide also includes regional league tables in a number of categories relating to the quality of schools up and down the country.

In this year’s guide readers will survey results and research on primary and secondary state and independent schools. Running alongside the supplement is a national database of more than 2,000 schools by name, local authority, town and postcode, the newspaper revealed.

Helen Davies, editor of The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide, said: “The educational landscape is testing – budget challenges, rising student mental health issues, special educational needs and an increasingly uncertain future. But there is also so much to celebrate from the dedication of teachers who are finding ever more innovative and impactful ways to enrich their students and give them the very best start in life.

“As well as celebrating the academic excellence of the top schools it is uplifting to see how they are shaping their students to be ready for the 21st century, and instilling a lifelong love of learning.”

Parents are encouraged to use the guide to compare schools within their area or check them against other institutions across the nation.