Admissions Enquiries: 01992 414109
General Enquiries: 01992 414100

Welcome to Duncombe School

Duncombe School is an Independent Day School and Pre-School, nestled in the beautiful town of Hertford, for children aged 2-11 years.

As a school we pride ourselves in nurturing our children’s minds through an inspiring educational journey and we encourage every child to dream big!

We believe success and happiness are not simply defined by outstanding academic results, but by being treated and celebrated as an individual, who is encouraged to develop strength of character and explore fully their personal potential.

Visit Team Duncombe and discover a Duncombe education.

Book an Open Day

The heart of...

ENRICHMENT

At Duncombe, we believe that children's learning is not confined to the four walls of a classroom or only the pages of a textbook. Instead, our talented and dedicated teachers create individualised lessons that are designed to inspire and engage our children through real-life experiences.

Wellbeing

The heart of...

OPPORTUNITY

From the School Council and buddying to prefects and co-curricular activities, there is an abundance of opportunities to develop the skills of empathy and responsibility in every child. These skills are invaluable to a child’s character development, wellbeing and sense of self.

Co-Curricular

The heart of...

SCHOOL SPIRIT

Duncombe is a home from home for our children. A culture of kindness can be felt as soon as you enter our school - a sense of community, friendship and warmth. Our mantra is Team Duncombe, as a school we recognise we are part of something truly special.

Hello from Team Duncombe

Welcome to Duncombe School. We are so proud to say that our school has achieved numerous accreditations and been awarded the highest grading across multiple inspections, including ‘Excellent in All Areas’ in our June 2022 ISI inspection. Find out more about what makes Duncombe so special.

"We each share a clear vision of what an excellent Prep school looks like; I believe it can be defined as the willingness to explore the new, along with the confidence to stand on the established. "

- Jeremy Phelan, Headmaster

More from our Headmaster
3 min watch
Our children are happy to go into school every day and have developed a real sense of learning and exploration of the world around them.

 – Voice of the Parent, 2023

Awards & Accreditations

Duncombe are delighted to have been recognised and endorsed by numerous regulatory bodies for our commitment to…

Co-educational Independent School of the Year

We are delighted to have been shortlisted for Co-educational Independent Prep School of the Year 2024, which is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering an inspiring educational journey through enrichment learning and a nurturing environment. This recognition acknowledges that all our children are treated as individuals, encouraged to develop strength of character, and prepared for life beyond Duncombe with an open, confident, and inquisitive mind.

Highly Commended Excellence in STEM

Duncombe School is delighted to announce that we have been recognised in the Muddy Stilettos Best Schools Awards 2024 for the second year in a row! This year, we received a High Commendation for Excellence in STEM! The judges were impressed with our innovative teaching methods and engaging learning opportunities, making STEM subjects come alive for our pupils. This award celebrates the dedication, innovation, and teamwork of the entire Team

Most Innovative Technology Led Teaching

We believe technology enhances learning and we've seen first-hand its positive impact on our children's engagement and preparation for the future. This Muddy Stilettos award is a testament to our children who have fully embraced the benefits of digital learning and our incredible teaching staff, who've worked tirelessly to incorporate technology-led practices.

Digital Learning
NACE

As an accredited NACE school, we have been recognised to provide a high-quality education that challenges and engages all learners. Our teachers foster collaboration, cultivate good learning habits, and support individual growth. We value each student's unique talents, creating an inclusive environment where strengths are celebrated and developed further.

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Pupil Safety

We are extremely proud to have been endorsed by Millie’s Mark, acknowledging that all our Early Years staff are paediatric first aid trained. All other members of staff are first aid trained ensuring we are confident, ready and capable.

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Wellbeing & environmental issues

Through an ambitious eco-plan, designed and led by our pupil Eco Council to help tackle ongoing environmental issues, Duncombe has been awarded the Eco-School Green Flag Award. This award acknowledges our continued commitment and our Eco-School flag flies proudly in the school grounds.

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Food for Life

Our catering team, Thomas Franks, works closely with the school to ensure all of Team Duncombe enjoy fresh, tasty and wholesome food, whatever their dietary needs. This commitment has been recognised through endorsements from both ‘Food for Life’ and Coeliac UK.

FACILITIES & LOCATION

Palladian-style mansion with acres of stunning woodland

Situated at the edge of Hertford town, in leafy Bengeo, Duncombe School benefits from a beautiful rural setting while being part of a vibrant and historic small town. Our Palladian-style mansion dates back to the 1860s and is surrounded by four and a half acres of stunning woodland and grounds.

Duncombe’s enriching facilities include a secluded Forest School, a multi-purpose covered Astro, a bright and vibrant library, and dedicated Parisian Style Art Loft and Science Laboratory. These facilities provide a stimulating and motivating learning environment for our children.

Find out more
The Duncombe Arena
The Duncombe Arena
Treetops Pre-School
The Dell Forest School
Forest School Outdoor Classroom
The Sound Garden
Outdoor Gym
The Music and Dance Studio
The Library
Parisian Style Art Loft
Science Laboratory

Inspection Report

Celebrating Excellence in Education!

“Pupils are enthusiastic, committed learners from an early age due to the creative and imaginative lessons.”
-ISI Report 2022.

We are thrilled to share that Duncombe School and Treetops Pre-School have been awarded "EXCELLENT IN ALL AREAS" by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, as highlighted in our recent report. This is just one of the many findings that celebrate our commitment to enriching children's learning and providing them with exciting experiences and opportunities to thrive.

Discover the full report to learn more about our exceptional educational journey and how we nurture young minds for a successful future.

Read full report

Follow Team Duncombe on Social Media

Yesterday, #TeamDuncombe proudly celebrated International Language Day! This special day is all about embracing the richness of global cultures through language and communication. Each year, we focus on a particular country to bring the day together, and this year, our focus was on Africa!

We were thrilled to welcome some of our #TeamDuncombe parents into the school to teach children across all year groups a variety of African languages, songs, greetings, and much more. The day was a resounding success, and the children loved learning basic phrases in Yoruba (Nigeria), Twi (Ghana), Swahili (Kenya), and Ndebele (Zimbabwe).

A massive thank you to all our #TeamDuncombe parents who volunteered their time to make this such a joyful and culturally enriching event!

#CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

Open
Yesterday, #TeamDuncombe proudly celebrated International Language Day! This special day is all about embracing the richness of global cultures through language and communication. Each year, we focus on a particular country to bring the day together, and this year, our focus was on Africa! We were thrilled to welcome some of our #TeamDuncombe parents into the school to teach children across all year groups a variety of African languages, songs, greetings, and much more. The day was a resounding success, and the children loved learning basic phrases in Yoruba (Nigeria), Twi (Ghana), Swahili (Kenya), and Ndebele (Zimbabwe). A massive thank you to all our #TeamDuncombe parents who volunteered their time to make this such a joyful and culturally enriching event! #CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

#TeamDuncombe have been busy unleashing their artistic talents this afternoon, working on what will become their 2024 Christmas card masterpiece!

We know, it might feel a little early to be thinking about Christmas, but you just can’t rush creativity! With designs that are shaping up to be truly magical, friends and families are in for a real treat when these festive masterpieces make their way onto the mantelpiece.

#CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

Open
#TeamDuncombe have been busy unleashing their artistic talents this afternoon, working on what will become their 2024 Christmas card masterpiece! We know, it might feel a little early to be thinking about Christmas, but you just can’t rush creativity! With designs that are shaping up to be truly magical, friends and families are in for a real treat when these festive masterpieces make their way onto the mantelpiece. #CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

Last week, #TeamDuncombe launched Black History Month with the powerful theme: Reclaiming Narratives!

We explored the importance of everyone having the power to tell their own story and how these stories shape the way we see the world. Our students were captivated by the vibrant "dub poetry" of Benjamin Zephaniah, celebrating the rich diversity of `The British,` and admired the courage and determination of Mary Seacole, among others.

Over the next few weeks, we will be celebrating more influential Black figures and reflecting on how their stories inspire us today.

#CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

Open
Last week, #TeamDuncombe launched Black History Month with the powerful theme: Reclaiming Narratives! We explored the importance of everyone having the power to tell their own story and how these stories shape the way we see the world. Our students were captivated by the vibrant "dub poetry" of Benjamin Zephaniah, celebrating the rich diversity of 'The British,' and admired the courage and determination of Mary Seacole, among others. Over the next few weeks, we will be celebrating more influential Black figures and reflecting on how their stories inspire us today. #CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

Are you passionate about nurturing young minds and helping children thrive in their early years? If so, #TeamDuncombe are looking for a for a Nursery Nurse to join our vibrant, friendly team.

Across our setting, we take pride in creating an inspiring educational journey where every child is encouraged to grow, explore, and flourish in a fun, nurturing environment.

To find our more visit our website.

#CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

Open
Are you passionate about nurturing young minds and helping children thrive in their early years? If so, #TeamDuncombe are looking for a for a Nursery Nurse to join our vibrant, friendly team. Across our setting, we take pride in creating an inspiring educational journey where every child is encouraged to grow, explore, and flourish in a fun, nurturing environment. To find our more visit our website. #CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

Exciting News Alert!

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that #TeamDuncombe’s U11 football squad have qualified for the National @isfafootball U11 Football Finals at the iconic St George’s Park!

After showcasing some truly outstanding performances in our group, we’re ready to take on the best of the best!

This regional qualifier is known for its fierce competition, and we couldn`t be prouder of our team, brilliant effort, exceptional attitude, and all round excellent performance.

Let’s keep the momentum going as we head to the finals.

#CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

Open
Exciting News Alert! We are absolutely thrilled to announce that #TeamDuncombe’s U11 football squad have qualified for the National @isfafootball U11 Football Finals at the iconic St George’s Park! After showcasing some truly outstanding performances in our group, we’re ready to take on the best of the best! This regional qualifier is known for its fierce competition, and we couldn't be prouder of our team, brilliant effort, exceptional attitude, and all round excellent performance. Let’s keep the momentum going as we head to the finals. #CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

#TeamDuncombe are looking forward to welcoming our guest speakers to our `Meet the Head` event on Thursday evening.

If you haven`t reserved your place already, please do so through School Cloud.

#CognitaWay @stedmundscollegeandprep @queenswoodschool @haileyburyuk @thebishopsstortfordcollege

Open
#TeamDuncombe are looking forward to welcoming our guest speakers to our 'Meet the Head' event on Thursday evening. If you haven't reserved your place already, please do so through School Cloud. #CognitaWay @stedmundscollegeandprep @queenswoodschool @haileyburyuk @thebishopsstortfordcollege

Celebrating Global Be Well Day at Duncombe!

This year’s theme was *Giving*, and our #TeamDuncombe community came together in such meaningful ways!

Treetops kicked things off by creating heartfelt cards and pictures for the residents of Bentley House and The Dell, spreading love and smiles across Hertford. Lower School added sweetness to the day, decorating delicious tray bakes and cupcakes—personally delivered by our amazing Year 6 children to Bentley House. They spent time with the residents, sharing stories, laughter, and their lovely gifts.

Year 5 and 6 also played a vital role in supporting our annual charity, Feeding Communities. They helped prepare meals that were boxed up and delivered to City Harvest, ensuring that families in need will receive them this evening. Huge thanks to Raj Singh and his team for their valuable insights on giving and the impact these meals will have on our local community.

The day was filled with fun too—daytime discos, mindfulness activities, and a whole-school art project kept the energy high!

A huge hank you to everyone involved for a day filled with generosity, kindness, and unforgettable moments!


#GBWD2024 #CognitaImpactHour
#CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cityharvestlondon @_thomasfranks @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

Open
Celebrating Global Be Well Day at Duncombe! This year’s theme was *Giving*, and our #TeamDuncombe community came together in such meaningful ways! Treetops kicked things off by creating heartfelt cards and pictures for the residents of Bentley House and The Dell, spreading love and smiles across Hertford. Lower School added sweetness to the day, decorating delicious tray bakes and cupcakes—personally delivered by our amazing Year 6 children to Bentley House. They spent time with the residents, sharing stories, laughter, and their lovely gifts. Year 5 and 6 also played a vital role in supporting our annual charity, Feeding Communities. They helped prepare meals that were boxed up and delivered to City Harvest, ensuring that families in need will receive them this evening. Huge thanks to Raj Singh and his team for their valuable insights on giving and the impact these meals will have on our local community. The day was filled with fun too—daytime discos, mindfulness activities, and a whole-school art project kept the energy high! A huge hank you to everyone involved for a day filled with generosity, kindness, and unforgettable moments! #GBWD2024 #CognitaImpactHour #CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cityharvestlondon @_thomasfranks @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

It’s a BIG day tomorrow!

Tomorrow #TeamDuncombe will be celebrating Cognita`s annual Global Be Well Day, a highlight of our calendar that unites colleagues from around the world!

This year, the theme is all about **Giving,** and we can’t wait to introduce our new initiative: the Be Well Impact Hour!

We look forward to sharing all the wonderful activities and moments from our day with you!

#GBWD2024 #CognitaImpactHour
#CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

Open
It’s a BIG day tomorrow! Tomorrow #TeamDuncombe will be celebrating Cognita's annual Global Be Well Day, a highlight of our calendar that unites colleagues from around the world! This year, the theme is all about **Giving,** and we can’t wait to introduce our new initiative: the Be Well Impact Hour! We look forward to sharing all the wonderful activities and moments from our day with you! #GBWD2024 #CognitaImpactHour #CognitaWay #prepschools #privateschool #independentschools #independenteducation #inspiringeducation #primaryeducation #education #hertford #hertfordshire #hertfordshiremums #easthertfordshire #hertfordshireschools @cognitaschools @goodschoolsguide @iapsuk @muddyhertsbeds

SCHOOL NEWS

Categories
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    June 21, 2024

    EXCITING NEWS!

    Breaking News!- Duncombe achieves ‘Highly Commended’ for Excellence in STEM in Muddy Stiletto’s School Awards 2024       Duncombe School is delighted to share that is...

    Read more
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    March 10, 2024

    IAPS Celebrations!

    Congratulations to these pupils, for their remarkable achievements at the IAPS Swimming Regionals this week! One pupil displayed exceptional skill and determination in her race, once again,...

    Read more
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    March 8, 2024

    Mr Phelan’s Weekly Round UP!

    In homage to World Book Day and the courageous BFG, it has been a splendiferous week all-round! Thank you to everyone for being so fully engaged in...

    Read more
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Begin an unforgettable adventure.

Duncombe School cultivates a love for learning, laying a strong foundation for future success. Our school is divided into three stages: Early Years (ages 2-5), which includes pre-school and Reception, Lower School (ages 5-8), and Upper School (ages 8-11). 
Your child's learning journey
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Early Kindergarten & Kindergarten

2 - 3 yrs old

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Nursery

3 - 4 yrs old

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Reception

4 - 5 yrs old

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Lower School

5 - 8 yrs old

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Upper School

8 - 11 yrs old

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Admissions

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Request a prospectus.

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Open days & visits
Facilities & Location
Academic success

Duncombe School

Admissions Enquiries: 01992 414109

General Enquiries: 01992 414100