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catchment.school

Sir John Lawes School Catchment Area

Reviewed by the catchment.school editorial team · Last updated 15 March 2026

Sir John Lawes School is a academy converter secondary school in Harpenden, Hertfordshire , serving pupils aged 11–18, with 1356 pupils, and a capacity of 1200 places. The school is currently at or above capacity, making catchment area proximity important for admissions.

11–18

Age range

1,356

Pupils

1,200

Capacity

113%

Fill rate

Outstanding

Ofsted 2023

Sir John Lawes School Catchment Area Information

As an academy, Sir John Lawes School sets its own admissions criteria, agreed with Hertfordshire. The catchment area boundary is defined in the school's annual admissions policy, which may differ from the LA's general school admissions arrangements.

Currently oversubscribed: 1356 pupils enrolled against a capacity of 1200 places. Living within the catchment area is especially important for this school.

Not getting a place? Learn how to appeal a school place →

The official admissions policy — including the catchment boundary map — is published by Hertfordshire before each admissions cycle. Always verify your address with the council before submitting an application, as boundaries can change year to year.

Find Hertfordshire catchment area documents →

Sir John Lawes School — School Information

Full address
Manland Way, Harpenden, AL5 4QP
Local authority
Hertfordshire
School type
Academy converter
Phase of education
Secondary
Age range
11–18 years
Admissions policy
Non-selective
Free school meals
8.9% of pupils
DfE URN
137270

Other Secondary Schools in Harpenden

If Sir John Lawes School is oversubscribed, these secondary schools in Harpenden are the next closest alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions — Sir John Lawes School

Is Sir John Lawes School oversubscribed?

Yes — Sir John Lawes School currently has 1356 pupils enrolled against a capacity of 1200 places. Catchment area proximity is an important admissions criterion when applying.

What is the admissions policy for Sir John Lawes School?

Admission to Sir John Lawes School is managed by Hertfordshire. When oversubscribed, places go to looked-after children first, then siblings, then catchment area distance. Always verify the current policy with the council before applying.

What age range does Sir John Lawes School cover?

Sir John Lawes School is a secondary school in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, serving pupils aged 11–18. For the latest information, visit the school's website or the DfE Get Information About Schools service.

What is the Ofsted rating for Sir John Lawes School?

Sir John Lawes School was rated Outstanding by Ofsted in 2023. Full inspection reports are available at reports.ofsted.gov.uk.