Hormead Church of England (VA) First School

About Hormead Church of England (VA) First School

Hormead Church of England (VA) First School is clearly a popular choice among local families. For the 2025/26 admissions round, the school received 37 applications for just 16 places, giving it an oversubscription ratio of 2.31. All 16 first-preference applicants were offered a place, which suggests that while demand is strong, those who put it first are likely to secure a spot. The school is a state primary for mixed genders, serving children from age 2 to 9, and it currently has 131 pupils on roll against a capacity of 109, meaning it is operating slightly above its official limit. With 13.4 per cent of pupils eligible for free school meals, the intake is broadly representative of the local area. The school’s Church of England foundation is reflected in its facilities, which include a chapel, and the headteacher is Lynda Cowler.

Academically, Hormead holds a Good rating from Ofsted, a grade it has maintained across its two most recent inspections. The most recent graded inspection took place in May 2024, and the school received Good marks across all five categories: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This consistency is reassuring for parents. The school’s previous inspection in 2015 also rated overall effectiveness as Good, with leadership and management and early years provision both scoring 2 at that time. While the data does not include specific Key Stage 2 SATs results for Hormead, the local authority average for the same phase is 64 per cent achieving the expected standard. Among the 401 primary schools in Hertfordshire, 45 hold an Outstanding rating, so Hormead’s Good grade places it in solid company within a competitive local landscape.

The school offers a range of facilities that support both academic and personal development, including a gymnasium, music rooms, a dining hall, and a Forest School programme. Sports on offer include gymnastics, dance, rounders, and football, while clubs such as book club, science club, coding, choir, and art club provide enrichment beyond the school day. For families with children who have additional needs, the school’s SEND provisions cover specific learning difficulties including dyslexia, moderate learning difficulty, social, emotional and mental health needs, speech, language and communication needs, and autistic spectrum disorder. Nursery provision is also available, making it a convenient option for families looking for continuity from early years through to Year 4. Given its oversubscription and strong Ofsted record, this school is likely to suit families who value a church-affiliated setting with a broad extracurricular offer and a clear track record of consistent quality.

Key Details

Frequently Asked Questions About Hormead Church of England (VA) First School

Helpful Guides for Parents