Longdean School

Longdean School is a secondary school and sixth form with academy status, located in the southeast of Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire. The academy specializes in Maths and Computing.HistoryGrammar schoolOriginally called Apsley Grammar School, it began as a state grammar school in Hemel Hempstead. It was founded in 1955 as part of the development of the town after its designation as a new town and the need for expanded secondary school provision. Although named for the nearby village of Apsley the school is actually situated about one mile away, in the Bennetts End district of the town. Its first Head Teacher was Valentine (V.J.) Wrigley.ComprehensiveThe name of the school changed to Longdean School in 1970 on the amalgamation with the adjacent Bennett's End Secondary Modern School to form what was the third-largest comprehensive school in Hertfordshire at the time.The school motto of Rejoice in Thy Youth was retained after the amalgamation.Since September 2006 the headmaster has been Mr Rhodri Bryant, replacing the previous headmaster, Mr Nigel Matthias. The last Ofsted report classed the school as a ‘GOOD’ school with outstanding features. Mr Bryant's appointment coincided with the £30,000 redevelopment of the 6th Form common room as well as significant refurbishment throughout the school. Further development is planned.