A number of schools across St Albans and Harpenden have once again been recognised among the top-performing in the country, reinforcing the area’s reputation as one of Hertfordshire’s most desirable places to live.
According to a newly published league table by Think Academy, which ranks the UK’s best state secondary schools based on the latest A-level results, several local schools have secured positions within the top 100 nationally.
At the top of the list is Dame Alice Owen’s School in Potters Bar, where 30.7% of A-level grades in 2025 were awarded A*, and 89.1% of students achieved grades of B or above.
St Albans continues to perform strongly, with Sandringham School ranked 14th nationally. The school recorded 73.6% of students achieving at least a B, with 43.8% attaining A or A* grades. St Albans Girls’ School and Beaumont School also feature in the rankings at 68th and 70th respectively, with more than 66% of students at both schools achieving grades of B or higher.
Harpenden is equally well represented, with three schools recognised in the top 100. St George’s School ranks 18th nationally, with 51.6% of students achieving A or A* grades, followed by Sir John Lawes School in 23rd place and Roundwood Park School in 47th.
In total, 11 Hertfordshire schools are included in the top 100, a significant proportion of which are located within St Albans and Harpenden, reflecting the strength and consistency of education across the local area.
Commenting on the findings, Andrew Bradford, Partner at Bradford & Howley, said:
“The continued success of our local schools is a key reason why St Albans and Harpenden remain such attractive places to live. We regularly see families making move decisions based around school catchment areas, and this level of performance only strengthens demand. Combined with strong transport links and a real sense of community, it’s no surprise the area continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers.”
While the rankings focus on academic performance, Think Academy advises that parents should also consider wider factors such as Ofsted ratings when making decisions about schooling.
Source: Think Academy UK school league table, based on 2025 A-level results.