The Henrietta Barnett School
London · NW11 7BN
The Henrietta Barnett School is a selective girls' grammar school founded in 1911, housed in a Grade II* Listed Lutyens-designed building in the prestigious Hampstead Garden Suburb. Known for academic rigour and a broad, stimulating curriculum centred on five core values—Authenticity, Kindness, Curiosity, Connection, and Endeavour—the school has recently been recognised by the Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2025 as State Secondary School of the Year for Academic Excellence. As a non-denominational academy, it combines traditional excellence with a contemporary, values-led approach to education.
- →Exceptional academic outcomes and recent recognition as State Secondary School of the Year for Academic Excellence
- →Highly selective entry ensuring a cohort of academically ambitious girls with strong peer support
- →Historic, beautiful Grade II* Listed building in Hampstead Garden Suburb with a strong sense of community and tradition
Who thrives here
Academically ambitious girls with resilience and intellectual curiosity who thrive in a selective, competitive environment and value breadth alongside depth. Those drawn to a school with strong pastoral values and emphasis on character alongside grades.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Central Square, Hampstead Garden Suburb
London
NW11 7BN
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
Esther Rantzen
Television presenter, media personality, and founder of ChildLine
Jenny Agutter
Actress known for film and television roles
Frequently asked questions
How much does The Henrietta Barnett School cost?
The Henrietta Barnett School is a state grammar school, so there are no tuition fees — places are free and allocated by the 11-plus exam and the school’s admissions criteria.
How do you get into The Henrietta Barnett School?
The Henrietta Barnett School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are The Henrietta Barnett School's exam results?
At The Henrietta Barnett School, 70.4% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 96.8% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is The Henrietta Barnett School a boarding school?
The Henrietta Barnett School is a day school in London and does not offer boarding.
What is The Henrietta Barnett School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated The Henrietta Barnett School “Good” (2022).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Outstanding academic results and rigorous teaching
✓Strong pastoral care and values-led education framework
✓Beautiful historic building and sense of community and tradition
✓Ambitious, broad curriculum with good enrichment opportunities
✓High-achieving peer group and positive school culture
Common concerns
!Limited transparency on SEND provision for families with additional learning needs
!No Ofsted inspection yet as an academy; lack of external validation despite strong reputation
!Highly selective entry may create pressure-filled environment for some pupils