Aldenham

Overview

The school was founded in 1597 by Richard Platt, who owned a London brewery. Aldenham remains proud of its long history and has six senior houses and one junior house. The three oldest houses – McGill's (gold), Beevor's (red) and Paull's (sky blue) – are each named after their first Housemasters. Within this caring and well-disciplined community, set in over 110 acres of Hertfordshire countryside yet only 13 miles from central London, it is our aim that each pupil should be known as an individual and encouraged to develop their all-round gifts to the full.

Unique Points

Sport has long been major part of the extracurricular activities at the school. In 1825 Aldenham became the second place after Eton to write down rules for its code of football. The Good Schools Guide called Aldenham "A seriously sporty school", as well as "Intensely competitive." Aldenham was used to film  interior scenes in the 1968 classic British film If..., starring Malcolm McDowell and directed by Lindsay Anderson.

Entry Requirements

For 11+ places are offered on the basis of a satisfactory performance at the 11+ test, interview and school report. The entrance examination is held during the Spring Term and the aim is to test the skills of the candidates whatever their background.  Papers are set in English and Mathematics and Reasoning. If Aldenham School is the only choice, an early offer may be made, subject to a satisfactory interview and school report. For 13+ places are offered on the basis of 13+ test, interview and school report. The test is during the Spring Term and papers are set in English, Maths, Science and Verbal Reasoning. If Aldenham School is the only choice, an early offer may be made, subject to a satisfactory interview and school report.For sixth form entry offers can be made following successful interview, school report and predicted GCSE grades. A minimum of 5 GCSE passes at grade C or above is required, with at least B grades expected in the subjects to be studied at AS/A2 Level.  If a pupil has failed to get a C grade at GCSE in English Language or Mathematics, then they will be required to take one or both during the Lower Sixth year, as subsequent University applications may depend upon grades in these subjects.