The Purcell School
11+ Admissions Guide 2026

The Purcell School is an independent co-educational day and boarding school located in Bushey, Hertfordshire. It is one of four specialist schools in England supported by the government's music and dance scheme, and is governed as a company limited by guarantee, led by its directors. The school has three boarding houses on its campus. Two offer co-educational accommodation for pupils across different year groups, while the third provides accommodation for female boarders in Years 10 to 13. The school welcomes both home and international boarders, with pupils coming from countries across Europe and from many nations around the world. The Purcell School aims to provide young musicians of exceptional promise, regardless of background, with a supportive environment that equips them with the self-confidence, adaptability, maturity and perspective to sustain their professional development and personal fulfilment throughout their lives. Entry is based on musical ability and potential, and the school offers additional support to pupils with special educational needs or disabilities, as well as to those who speak English as an additional language.

Years 7-9 may not have phones during school day. Years 10-11 may keep phones in bags but not use them. Sixth form may keep and use phones but not in lessons or communal areas except common rooms. All boarders up to Year 11 must hand in phones, tablets and laptops overnight.