• Duncombe is nurturing and inspiring, with a clear message about encouraging children to dream big within a close school community.

• A persuasive option for families who want a smaller Hertford prep with warmth, encouragement and room for children to be known well.

Admissions at Duncombe are straightforward and reassuringly practical, with a published application process, a clear admissions team and even mid-year entry possible where places allow. For parents, that makes the school feel accessible rather than over-processed.

Scholarships are not the headline attraction. The stronger draw is a small, nurturing prep where families expect attention, encouragement and a sense that children are genuinely known.

• The school does not publish bursary entry points, so families should ask directly.
• The school does not publish bursary award levels, so families should ask directly.
• Families should contact the school directly to ask whether any bursary, hardship support or discretionary fee assistance is available.

The overall picture is warm and small scale, with the school openly presenting itself as a Hertford day school where children are known well. In a setting like this, atmosphere and relationships are likely to be central.

Assessment at Duncombe is close, encouraging and teacher led, with the school focusing on confidence, secure progress and helping each child grow in a smaller day-school setting. The feel is likely to be supportive rather than pressurised.