All-ThroughboysISI · Excellent

Haberdashers' Boys' School

· WD6 3AF

AAB+ A-level

68.1%

9–7 GCSE

84.1%

Day fees

£25k

Inspection

Excellent

Read report

Haberdashers' Boys' School (formerly Haberdashers' Aske's Boys' School) is one of England's most academically distinguished independent day schools, consistently ranked among the top selective schools in the country for GCSE and A-level results. Situated on a large suburban campus in Elstree, Hertfordshire, the school draws boys from across North London and Hertfordshire, offering education from age 4 through to 18 within a single cohesive community. The school is underpinned by high academic expectations, a strong tradition of public service linked to its Livery Company heritage, and a genuinely broad co-curricular programme. Its competitive entry and demanding culture produce well-rounded, highly motivated young men who go on to leading universities and professions.

  • Exceptional academic outcomes, with results consistently placing it in the national top five for GCSE and A-level
  • All-through structure from age 4 gives stability and avoids multiple competitive entry points
  • Strong Oxbridge and Russell Group placement record combined with genuine breadth in sport, music, drama and service
  • Close London access with a spacious green campus offering facilities that urban day schools cannot match
  • Deep traditions rooted in the Haberdashers' Livery Company, fostering community and charitable values

Who thrives here

Boys who are intellectually curious, self-motivated and competitive, and who thrive in a fast-paced, high-expectation academic environment while also wanting strong co-curricular options. The school suits pupils who enjoy academic challenge as an end in itself and are prepared to commit across multiple areas of school life.

Strengths at a glance

Exam results50th pctSports65th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers50th pctPastoral & wellbeing83rd pct

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typeAll-Through · Day
Founded1690
Number of pupils1,462
Sixth form319
Pupils with SEND136
Age range4–18
GenderBoys
Day fees£24.6k/yr
AssociationsHMC, ISC
Settingsuburban
LocationThe school runs an extensive network of coach routes covering North London, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas; most boys commute by school coach rather than public transport.
EthosNon-denominational

Contact & visit

Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire

WD6 3AF

02082661700
Mr Robert Sykes, Headteacher

Nearest stations

Elstree & Borehamwood10 min
Radlett12 min
Mill Hill East20 min

Notable alumni

Sacha Baron Cohen

Actor and comedian, creator of Ali G and Borat

Mark Ronson

Grammy Award-winning record producer and musician

Simon Schama

Historian, author and broadcaster

Andrew Strauss

England cricket captain and ECB director

Ed Vaizey

Former UK Minister for Culture

Jonah Lomu

New Zealand rugby legend (attended briefly)

Michael Howard

Former Leader of the Conservative Party

Rolf Harris

Former entertainer (convicted)

Recent investment

Relocation and campus redevelopment following merger discussions and rebrand as Haberdashers' Boys' School
Ongoing enhancement of STEM and performing arts facilities on the Elstree campus

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees at Haberdashers' Boys' School?

Day fees at Haberdashers' Boys' School are approximately £24,600 per year (2024/25).

How do you get into Haberdashers' Boys' School?

Haberdashers' Boys' School admits pupils at 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.

What are Haberdashers' Boys' School's exam results?

At Haberdashers' Boys' School, 68.1% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 84.1% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.

Is Haberdashers' Boys' School a boarding school?

Haberdashers' Boys' School is a day school in England and does not offer boarding.

What is Haberdashers' Boys' School's latest inspection rating?

ISI rated Haberdashers' Boys' School “Excellent” (2022).

What parents say

Frequently praised

Outstanding academic results and university placement, which parents view as genuinely world-class

Breadth of co-curricular opportunity means boys rarely feel unchallenged outside the classroom

Strong peer group of motivated, intellectually engaged boys that drives aspiration

Excellent sport at both elite and participation level, with good facilities for a day school

Responsive and caring tutor system that belies the school's academic reputation

Common concerns

!High academic pressure can be intense; some boys and parents find the pace relentless especially approaching GCSEs

!Commuting times on school coaches can be long for boys travelling from South or East London

!The competitive culture, while motivating for many, can affect boys who are not in the top academic tier

!Fees represent a significant financial commitment and bursary provision, while improving, remains limited relative to demand