Headmaster’s Welcome
To parents and students joining UCS,
Many congratulations on receiving your offer to join UCS and many thanks for accepting!
UCS is above all else a community and I am sure you will very rapidly feel at home here.
We look forward to welcoming our Sixth Form joiners to an induction event on Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 June.
In the meantime, I hope the information in this booklet is a helpful entrée to how things operate at UCS. Do read it through but, equally, do contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
Finally, good luck to all of you in your GCSE exams. I look forward to seeing you later on in the year.
Kind regards,
Mark J Beard Headmaster
Meet our Deputy Heads
Our two Deputy Heads are responsible for the day-to-day running of the school. Mr English is Vice Master (Senior Deputy Head) and Academic Director. He has oversight of all academic, curriculum and teaching and learning matters, and deputises for the Headmaster when required. Ms Baxter is Deputy Head (Pupils) and oversees the work of the Form Tutors, Wardens and Heads of Section.
“Pastoral care is woven into the fabric of school life at UCS. It is not an add-on, it’s the thread that connects how we teach, support and relate to pupils every day. Our whole-school approach is strategic and inclusive, embedded across the curriculum and wider community. This layered support network, including two form tutors for every pupil throughout the Senior School, enables us to build strong and meaningful relationships with pupils and their families, and respond quickly to individual needs.”
Rebecca Baxter Deputy Head, Pupils
“At UCS, we offer a breadth of education that challenges and inspires, helping pupils uncover their passions, develop their strengths and begin to shape their future aspirations.
We see education in its broadest sense: a distinctive curriculum and innovative teaching that prepare pupils not only for academic success, but for life in the 21st century. Outstanding examination results follow naturally, and pupils go on to achieve considerable success in applications to leading universities. Above all, our aim is for every pupil to develop a lasting love of learning that will stay with them for life.”
Mark English Vice Master & Academic Director
Preparing for Life at UCS Sixth Form Induction
Transitus (Year 12) Induction, Wednesday 24 June and Thursday 25 June
The new Transitus will be invited in for a comprehensive programme of induction events on Wednesday 24 June and Thursday 25 June, after the end of GCSE exams. The two days will include taster lessons in each student’s four chosen A Levels plus a fifth subject, the opportunity to meet and ask questions of students in the year above, to get to know their new form group and Form Tutor, and to hear from key staff about Sixth Form life. It is very much hoped that all those joining UCS in September will be able to attend. More details will follow in due course.
Orientation Day
Although term starts at the Senior School on Monday 1 September, all Transitus students must attend our Orientation Day on Friday 28 August The day will run from 9.15am to 3.30pm. A full set of term dates for the academic year 2026-27 can be found overleaf, and on the school website.
Parents’ Welcome
There will also be a welcome event for all parents of Transitus in early September. Further details will be provided nearer to the time.
Term Dates 2026-27
Please note that all key dates are also published and up to date on our website.
Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 June 9.00 am - 5.30 pm Induction Days
Friday 28 August 9.15 am Orientation Day
A copy of the school calendar will be distributed in September. However, in the meantime please note the following dates:
Autumn Term 2026
New Pupil Induction: Friday 28 August
Term Begins: Tuesday 1 September
Inset Day: Friday 18 September (pupils dismissed after lunch)
Half Term: Monday 19 October to Friday 30 October
Ends: Friday 11 December (pupils dismissed at 12:00 pm)
Spring Term 2027
Begins:
Monday 4 January
Inset Day: Friday 12 February (pupils dismissed at 12.00 pm)
Half Term: Monday 15 to Friday 19 February
Ends: Thursday 25 March (pupils dismissed at 12.00 pm)
Summer Term 2027
Begins:
Monday 12 April
Spring Bank Holiday: Monday 4 May
Inset Day: Friday 28 May (Full day)
Half Term: Monday 31 May to Friday 4 June
Ends: Thursday 1 July pupils dismissed at12.00 pm)
Dates of UCS terms are published well in advance on our website. Parents must arrange family holidays and other appointments in such a way as to avoid clashes with term-dates and the normal school day. The school is happy to excuse pupils for reasons of special religious observance.
Travel to and from School
UCS strongly discourages all members of its community from driving to school if at all possible. High volumes of traffic on Frognal, in Hampstead and on the Finchley Road cause road congestion and poor air quality. There is no parking on-site or on- site drop off facility at Frognal. Sixth Form students are not entitled to park on the school site and there is very limited parking on any of the adjacent roads. Please note that the southern section of Frognal below Arkwright Road is closed to all traffic around school drop-off and collection times. Even if your journey is longer and you intend to use a private car, you might consider dropping and collecting your daughter/son at a short distance from the school, and/or car sharing.
Please walk, cycle or use public transport whenever possible. Walking or cycling promotes healthy exercise and makes life more pleasant for our neighbours. There is plenty of secure accommodation for bicycles at UCS. We offer clear guidance to all UCS students regarding safety on the streets.
UCS is fortunate to be served extremely well by public transport:
Bus: Many buses stop nearby including:
• 13 (from North Finchley and Golders Green to Central London)
• 46 (from Camden Town, Queens Park, Maida Vale and Kentish Town)
• 113 (from Edgware, Mill Hill and Hendon to Central London)
• 268 (from Belsize Park)
• C11 (from Archway, Parliament Hill, Gospel Oak and Tufnell Park)
• 603 (from Muswell Hill Broadway)
By Underground:
• Hampstead station is on the Northern line.
• Finchley Road station is on the Metropolitan and Jubilee lines and just 8 minutes walk from school.
By Train:
• Finchley Road and Frognal station is on the London Overground Mildmay line which connects us to Kilburn, Brondesbury, Queens Park, Willesden Junction, Clapham Junction, Richmond, Kew, Gospel Oak, Camden, Dalston, Highbury and Islington.
• West Hampstead station is on the Thameslink line which connects us to Cricklewood, Mill Hill, Radlett, and central and south London.
Physical address: UCS Hampstead, Frognal, Hampstead, London, NW3 6XH
2. Key Information about UCS Sixth Form
Timings of the School Day
As you look forward to joining UCS Sixth Form, we set out an overview of a typical week. We hope it will give you a sense of what to expect.
The school day starts at 8.45am and finishes at 4.00pm. Our timetable features nine 30-minute periods per day; six in the morning and three in the afternoon. We expect prompt attendance at Form Period between 8.45 and 9.05, and this is a compulsory and important part of every day. Consistent punctuality and attendance are a vital component to success at A Level.
The timings are shown below.
ACADEMIC LEARNING
All students start Year 12 on four A Level subjects. Each of these subjects is allocated eight 30-minute periods per week, most of which will be double periods. Typically the teaching of each A Level class is split between two teachers per subject, although there are exceptions.
Over the course of the two years, most students will drop one of their four A Levels; some may then commence an EPQ. The decision to drop a subject is a significant one, and it is always taken once the four A Levels have been studied for at least a term and a half. Continuing with four A levels into Year 13 is a decision that must be justified by a pupil’s readiness to meet the academic expectations across all four subjects; therefore, any pupil still studying four subjects at the end of year 12 who is working below AAAA will be required to drop a subject, typically their lowest-performing.
BIOS
Beyond these timetabled A Level lessons, all students in Years 12 and 13 will take part in the Bios Diploma Programme, designed to provide them with a broad and enriching learning experience beyond their subjects. Taking place over three timetabled periods a week, it is a wide-reaching programme of activities tailored to each individual. There are two main components: Core Courses and Electives.
All students will be required to take the four Core Courses:
• Personal & Social Development: During Transitus this course takes place Tuesday P7. Starting with a super- curricular academic research project, and then moving into topics such as consent, inclusion, wellbeing, self care, and finance, this core course lasts for the full two years of Sixth Form. It is a key component in preparing the young people of the Sixth Form as they make the transition into adult life.
• Higher Education & Careers: This course takes place Tuesdays and Fridays
in the Summer Term, and is a thorough introduction into life beyond UCS; what to consider when applying to University, how to go through the HE process, and an exploration of careers. All students will also complete the Academic Symposium as part of this course.
• Wellbeing: This core course runs during form time on a Friday morning for the duration of Transitus, and introduces students to strategies to support their wellbeing. Looking at - for example - how to handle stress, practice gratitude, emotional regulation, it is a wide reaching and practical course.
• Praxis: This core course consists of two academic projects. The first - the Bios Project - a joint endeavour, where pupils work in pairs to explore an academic topic and compile a summary of research. The second - the Academic Symposium - is an academic presentation, delivered in front of an assembled group of peers. Both together develop research and analysis skills, essential for A Level and beyond.
In addition to the Core Courses, students will also have the opportunity to choose four Electives to be taken on Friday afternoons during the Autumn and Spring terms over the course of two years. There are four categories of Elective courses:
• Academic: A range of academic courses in curriculum subjects, taking students beyond the scope of A Level and offering undergraduate level challenge.
• Beyond the Curriculum: A selection of cultural and co-curricular courses, targeted at developing talents beyond the classroom.
• Community: A range of term-long volunteering placements, allowing our students to make connections in the local community. These include local primary schools, conservation work, partner schools, and more.
• Development: Courses designed to build practical skills, and offer students the chance to acquire further skills such as BSL or undertake long-term MOOCs.
Upon completion of the Bios Diploma Programme, students will be awarded a Bios Diploma which will provide a detailed record of all the courses they have undertaken throughout the programme.
GAMES
In order to broaden the range of experience and education in the Sixth Form, Wednesday afternoons are devoted to sport. Weekly participation in our Games programme is compulsory, but all students select their preferred sport/ physical activity from a wide range of options, which vary from term to term. Depending on the option selected, Games will take place either at the Senior School site on Frognal, at our playing fields or at a nonUCS venue. Timings on these afternoons are necessarily more flexible. Further information is
given in the co-curricular section of this booklet.
STUDY PERIODS
Sixth Form study requires students to delve deeper into their subjects, and necessarily includes a greater degree of independent learning. Our library, known as the AKO Centre, is very well-resourced with books, journals and with digital learning resources.
From the beginning of Year 12, students will have six study periods per week in which they are able to make use of these, and decide how best to use their time in their academic pursuits.
ASSEMBLIES
Whole-school assembly takes place on Thursdays. The two Sixth Form years have their own assembly on Mondays, and
there are Deme assemblies on Wednesdays. Assemblies cover a wide range of topics, sometimes including practical information, but mostly focusing on pupils’ personal development, what it means to be part of the school community and society more generally, and identifying our values.
LUNCH
The cost of lunches is included in school fees. No daily payment by students is required. In order to ensure smooth operation of lunch service, year groups attend in designated slots each day.
Our lunches offer a considerable range of choices. In addition to our daily meat/fish and vegetarian main courses, we provide the option of a pasta or jacket potato bar, salad and sandwiches. Desserts and fresh fruit are available each day. Water and juice are provided as drinks.
Any other snacks may be brought in from home. We kindly ask that any food brought onto the premises is nut-free.
Finally, we are pleased to provide our Sixth Formers with a cafe facility within the Sixth Form Centre, providing hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and snacks. Students may opt to use the cafe in lieu of the school lunch, but all cafe purchases must be paid for. Payment is by card only.
LEAVING THE SITE
School starts promptly at 8.45am and attendance at Form Period between 8.45 and 9.05 is compulsory every day throughout the Sixth Form years. Until February of Year 12, departure for students before 4 pm is not permitted other than for reasons which would be permitted for all senior school students, e.g. illness or attending a medical appointment.
After February of Year 12, and in Year 13, students are generally permitted to leave school after their final afternoon lesson. This is a privilege of Sixth Form life at UCS and it can be withdrawn if we decide it is necessary to do so. The Head of Sixth Form will not permit students whose progress is cause for concern to end the school day early.
From February of the Transitus year, students may leave the site in the lunch-hour. On leaving the school students must ‘sign out’ at the school reception and ‘sign in’ on their return.
When feeling unwell, students should not leave the site without seeking permission from the school nurse and the necessary records being completed. If students have to leave for any other reason, they must have permission from their Deme Wardens and sign out in the usual manner.
DRESS CODE
Students are not required to wear uniform in the Sixth Form. They may dress formally or informally, but are asked to be conscious of the school community. Inappropriate slogans or logos are not acceptable.
THE SIXTH FORM CENTRE
Joining our Sixth Form means having access to the AKO Sixth Form Centre – in a space that is entirely dedicated to students in the Transitus and Sixth. The centre is multifunctional and flexible - both the cafe ‘space’ and the more informal areas have USB ports and full wifi. The cafe serves hot and cold food and drink across the day and there is a conference area, as well as work booths, to accommodate all the needs of a modern Sixth Former. The Head of Sixth Form and the Sixth Form Team are based in the Sixth Form Centre in the day, meaning that they are easily on hand when advice and support are needed.
USE OF IT AND MOBILE PHONES
All UCS students make use of IT for many aspects of their study. At the beginning of the Autumn Term, all new students are
introduced to the school’s IT facilities and services, and given their own unique username and password. This provides all students with access to online software, file storage, and an email account which are accessible from home as well as at school.
All students will need to bring their own device to school each day for use in lessons. They must bring the device to school fully charged and take it home to complete homework. Pupils who are in receipt of a bursary will be provided with a school-owned device, usually a Chromebook.
Students who are studying Art, Computer Science, Design & Technology or Music should consider a Windows laptop or MacBook to make use of subject-specific software. Tablets including iPads, and devices which only run browser-based apps such as Chromebooks are best avoided for pupils taking these subjects.
All students have access to Google Classroom, where details of assignments and lesson materials are posted. Alongside the assignments students will find a variety of resources for learning and study and other useful information. They also have access to Google Apps for creating and collaborating on work. It is therefore not necessary for students to purchase Microsoft Office.
Use of the school's IT facilities and services is managed and monitored carefully. Access to the internet is necessarily filtered and monitored. The school reserves the right to restrict access for students who misuse the facilities.
All students are required to sign up to the school policy for Acceptable Use of IT. Failure to follow these rules can result in sanctions including withdrawal of access.
MOBILE PHONES
Students may bring their mobile phone to school, but are not permitted to use them around the school site. They may, however, use their mobile phones in the Sixth Form Centre. Their use is not permitted during lessons.
KEY STAFF RELATIONSHIPS AND THE PASTORAL CARE OF STUDENTS
Coordinating both years of the Sixth Form is Mr Patrick Milton, the Assistant Head (Head of Sixth Form). The Head of Sixth Form is supported by the Sixth Form Team of staff - the Director of Higher Education, Deputy Director of Higher Education, Senior Tutor (Academic) and the HE and Careers Advisorswho take responsibility for the smooth running of the Transitus and Sixth Form and for all matters concerning Higher Education. They also manage the Sixth Form Centre together and regularly liaise with the respective Form Tutors and Deme Wardens about individuals’ involvement in the Sixth Form.
All students in the Transitus are members of one of the UCS Demes. All new students will join one of the six Demes (Baxters, Black Hawkins, Evans, Flooks, Olders and Underwoods). Within each Deme, students are allocated to a smaller form group, under the supervision of two Form Tutors. There are three forms per Deme. New pupils and those joining Transitus from the Middle School will be allocated to one of these three forms. Where possible, we try to ensure that new pupils joining the school are grouped together. Form Tutors assume responsibility for academic
and pastoral matters, with the Deme Warden maintaining an interest in the general wellbeing of each student.
Clearly, an overlap of duties occurs, offering an opportunity for students to develop closer relationships of their choice. The constant liaison between Form Tutors, Deme Wardens, the Sixth Form Team and the Head of Sixth Form ensures that each student will have support and advice whenever necessary. This is the defining feature of the UCS pastoral system.
CONTACTING US
If you need to contact the Senior School during the first half of the Summer Term, please direct your enquiry to the Admissions Office in the first instance. They will be able to answer most queries, but they will also be able to put you in contact with the most appropriate person.
Around the start of June, we will send our Form Allocation letters. These will indicate Form Tutor names, Deme allocations and Deme Warden names. The Form Tutors and Deme Wardens will then be the most appropriate people to contact regarding both pastoral matters and academic matters. The Admissions Office will continue to be the best place to direct queries regarding life generally at UCS. The induction on Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 June will provide plenty of opportunity to ask any questions you may have about life at
UCS. The orientation day on Friday 28th August will cover day-to- day organisation and the such like.
Please note that a list of staff contacts is included towards the end of this booklet.
CONTACTING US FROM SEPTEMBER
Form Tutors will be your first point of contact. If you have a comment or question about a minor day-to-day issue, they will be best placed to help. This includes notification of changes in parental home and/or work contact details. This is very important in case we need to contact you in an emergency.
Form Tutors also need to be informed about any developments at home that may affect a student’s attitudes or behaviour, for example if there is to be a separation or divorce, if there has been a death in the family, or of any other events which might affect a student’s happiness or demeanour at school. Information will always be treated in confidence.
Form Tutors retain academic oversight of the students in their form, and any general academic issues or concerns should be raised with them. If your query relates to a particular subject then the subject teacher, or in the case of something more serious, the Head of Department would be the person to contact.
The work of the Form Tutors is overseen by the Deme Warden. The Warden will also be kept apprised of significant pastoral matters and may be contacted directly.
We urge parents with concerns of any kind not to delay getting in touch with us. Just as we will always seek to communicate our concerns to parents, we hope that parents will feel free to contact Form Tutors and Deme Wardens about academic or social matters.
ABSENCE NOTES AND SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Authorised absences should be drawn to the attention of the Form Tutors in advance but in the event of illness or unforeseen circumstances we require a telephone call to
the reception by 8.30am (020 7433 2136) or an email to absence@ucs.org.uk.
The school will excuse students from attendance from school for reasons of special religious observance. However, dates of UCS terms are published well in advance and parents are expected to arrange family holidays and other appointments in such a way that clashes with term-dates are avoided.
Please note that absence for such reasons will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances, and only with the express permission of the Deputy Head (Pupils), Ms Rebecca Baxter (rebecca.baxter@ucs.org.uk)
Parents are also asked to support the school’s values and procedures - in particular by ensuring that absence from school is not for reasons other than illness and that they fulfil sporting or cultural commitments, even when these fall outside normal school hours.
REPORTING PROGRESS
There are summary reports before half term and then full written reports at the end of the first term of the Transitus year, followed by an online Subject Consultation Evening in the Spring Term. Communication in the Summer Term is based around the summer assessments and thinking forward to the UCAS process and university applications. There is an in-person Pastoral Guidance Consultation in May. An overview of reporting and parents’ consultations can be found on My School Portal in September.
COMPLAINTS AND MORE SERIOUS CONCERNS
If you have a more serious concern regarding your child’s welfare and development, or a disciplinary matter, you should contact the Warden first. Concerns about general pastoral care or safeguarding should be raised with the Deputy Head (Pupils).
3. Co-Curricular Life in the Sixth
Co-curricular participation is one of the most important and rewarding aspects of life in the Sixth Form, pivotal to preparing students for the world beyond UCS. Practical details of the co-curricular programme are outlined on the following pages, with further information to be provided in September.
DramaDrama at UCS is an integral and inclusive part of school life, offering students a wide range of opportunities to perform, create and collaborate.
The Upper School production is a highlight of the year. Staged in the first term, this highly ambitious production lets students become involved early in the academic year and to form new friendships through a shared experience. Productions
are presented to a high standard, with professional-quality lighting, sound, set and costumes.
Every two years, the school stages a large-scale musical production involving pupils from across the school, giving older and younger pupils the chance to collaborate and foster a sense of community and shared achievement.
Each year, students in Year 12 can audition for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe company. Successful candidates take part in the creation and performance of
an original play at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival, performing for one week. This experience offers invaluable exposure to professional theatre practice and students collaborate intensively with peers on a unique and challenging project.
In Dance, students can choreograph and perform for the annual Dance Show. In addition, evening trips to the theatre are offered to students throughout the academic year.
Sport
A wide range of games options will be available on Wednesday afternoons. These options vary from term to term. As well as our major team sports (rugby, cricket, football, hockey and netball), which we strongly encourage pupils to take part in, we offer as diverse a programme as possible, including tennis, squash, swimming, bouldering, basketball, well-being walk, table tennis and yoga. Some of these options carry additional charges (not applicable for bursary students).
Students will be free to leave at the conclusion of their particular activity on Wednesdays, unless informed otherwise. If the activity has been held at the sports fields or at a third party site, students may make their way home directly from there; there is no need to return to the Senior School on Frognal.
All students are required to notify their Form Tutors and Games Patrons in advance if they are likely to miss any Games or Activity session for a prearranged appointment and we also require notification from parents to this effect. Please also email offgames@ucs. org.uk
UCS Sixth Form students are strongly encouraged to wear the UCS senior sports clothing whilst they participate in physical activities on Wednesday afternoon. These items can be purchased from graysteamsports.com. Those pupils playing rugby or hockey must wear a mouth guard. These are available from titanmouthguards.com.
UCS SPORTS WEBSITE
The Senior School has a specialist sports website where all sports match details are located. The address is www.ucssport.org.uk. The website lists all Senior School fixtures, and should be the first port of call for students and parents when checking team sheets, dates, times and venues. It also carries all results for school fixtures. If a match needs to be amended, we will do so here and then send an email message to the students involved. In addition to this, the My School Portal website carries further information on sports at UCS, including our Code of Conduct for Sport and Rugby Risk Management documents.
Once selected as a member of a school team or squad, students are expected to make themselves aware of, and available for, all fixtures.
Music
MUSIC LESSONS
Individual lessons can be arranged at School on any of the following:
Piano
Flute
Trumpet
Classical Guitar
Oboe
Horn
Trombone
Electric Guitar
Violin
Clarinet
Tuba
Bass Guitar
Viola
Saxophone
Orchestral Percussion
Jazz Techniques
Cello
Bassoon
Drum Kit
Singing
Double Bass
Aural Training Theory
Lessons last for 30 minutes and are arranged on a rota basis throughout the day; during study periods, before school, lunchtime and after school. Due to the unequal length of the terms, these lessons may be unevenly distributed across the academic year.
Our Music Administrator, Aino Konkka aino.konkka@ucs.org.uk will be in touch with all new parents with details of how to enrol for instrumental or singing lessons. This will include details of the fees. Our Visiting Music Teachers (VMTs) are self- employed, independent professionals who will invoice you directly at the start of term for the forthcoming term’s lessons. The Director of Music, Mr Dawe is also happy to offer advice and can be reached at christopher.dawe@ucs. org.uk.
Recruitment for all ensembles and choirs takes place in the first week of the Autumn term. The principal groups are listed below. Those marked * are particularly suited to those at Grades 2 -5. Those marked # are for more advanced musicians who have attai ned at least Grade 6+. Scuola Cantorum is an advanced choir and is subject to audition. The Director of Music, Mr Dawe, is always happy to advise new parents on ensembles until the end of Summer Term and can be contacted at christopher.dawe@ucs.org.uk
Monday
8.10–8.45
12.55–1.30
1.30–2.05
4.15–5.30
Tuesday
8.00–8.35
12.55–1.30
4.15–5.15
4.15–5.30
Wednesday
8.10–8.45
8.10–8.45
12.50–1.30
1.00–2.00
4.15–5.30
Thursday
8.00–8.35
8.00–8.35
8.10–8.45
12.50–1.30
1.00–2.00
1.30–2.05
4.15–5.30
4.15–5.30
Friday
8.10–8.45
1.00–2.00
4.15–5.30
Brass Sinfonia #
Percussion Ensemble #
Accidentals (Close Harmony Group) #
Chamber Orchestra #
Guitar Ensemble *
Chamber Choir #
Scuola Cantorum #
Upper Remove Rock School #
String Orchestra *
Jazz Ensemble #
Big Band *
Remove Rock School #
Shell Rock School *
Clarinet Ensemble #
Flute Ensemble #
Top Voices (Boys’ Choir) *
Senior Jazz #
Transitus Rock School #
Altus (Girls’ Choir) #
Symphony Orchestra #
Entry Rock School *
Concert Band #
Lower Remove Rock School *
Sixth Rock School #
Trips
In the Sixth Form, trips and visits are an important part of the wider educational experience, helping to extend learning beyond the classroom and giving pupils opportunities to explore their subjects in more depth. With pupils following different A Level pathways, there is a particularly wide range of subjectspecific opportunities, alongside a broader enrichment programme that continues to grow and evolve.
Examples from recent years have included language trips abroad to destinations such as Spain, France and Germany, university visit days, theatre performances, and national competitions in areas including academic scholarship, debating and science. Departments may also offer trips such as Classics visits to
Greece, History visits to Northern Ireland, Politics visits to the Houses of Parliament, Art visits to major national galleries, Geography fieldwork in Essex and Biology fieldwork in Sussex. Drama pupils may have opportunities to attend the Edinburgh Fringe, while sport can include major international tours.
These are, however, only some examples among many. One of the strengths of Sixth Form life is the breadth of opportunity available, much of it shaped by the interests and aspirations of each cohort. Taken together, these visits and experiences help to deepen academic engagement, broaden horizons and develop the confidence, independence and perspective that are such an important part of a successful Sixth Form education.
Clubs
We are proud to offer an exceptionally wide range of clubs and societies which we hope will give every one of our new students the opportunity to explore and develop their interests. Including the chance for students to start and run their own societies. As senior members of the pupil body, our Sixth Formers take a lead role in establishing and/or running our co-curricular programme and driving the vibrancy of school life. Full details will be available at the start of the Autumn Term via the Assistant Head (Co- curricular).
Our co-curricular programme runs across the day, with most at lunchtime or after school, and a small number taking place before school.
WE OFFER OVER 100 CLUBS AND SOCIETIES, AND HERE IS A GLIMPSE OF SOME OF THE BRILLIANT OPTIONS ON OFFER.
ASIAN AND MIDDLE EASTERN HISTORY
SOCIETY
ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT
BASKETBALL CLUB
BOARD GAMES & PUZZLE CLUB
BRASS SINFONIA
CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
CHEMISTRY BREAKFAST
CHESS COACHING
CLAY CLUB
CLASSICS SOCIETY
COMPUTER SCIENCE BREAKFAST
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS CLUB
ECONOMICS SOCIETY
ENGINEERING SOCIETY
ENTRY ALLOTMENT CLUB
F1 SOCIETY
FANTASY SPORTS SOCIETY
FRENCH LITERATURE SOCIETY
ISLAMIC SOCIETY
ITALIAN CLUB
JAPANESE CLUB
JEWISH SOCIETY
JUNIOR DEBATING
LAW SOCIETY
LEGO SOCIETY
LIBERAL ARTS SOCIETY
LIVING POETS SOCIETY
LOWER SCHOOL BOOK CLUB
MAKE:ABLE
MEDICAL ETHICS SOCIETY
MODEL UNITED NATIONS
NETBALL CLUB
PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE
PHYSICS BREAKFAST
POLITICS SOCIETY
QUANTUM MECHANICS SOCIETY
RUNNING CLUB
SAXOPHONE ENSEMBLE
SPELLING & TRANSLATION BEE
COMPETITION CLUB
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN CLUB
SWIMMING CLUB
UCS DANCE COMPANY
UNO SOCIETY
VOLLEYBALL CLUB
VEX IQ ROBOTICS
4. The Sixth Form and the UCS Community
THE SIXTH FORM UNION THE PARENTS’ GUILD
Overseeing the social and cultural aspects of Sixth Form life is the Sixth Form Union, which comprises Student Officers (Wellbeing, Sustainability, Inclusion, and Women’s) in Year 12 and 13 working closely with the Head of Sixth Form. Elections are held for the Union positions and the group meets regularly to discuss Sixth Form events and matters relating to the two senior year groups.
In addition to organising social, educational, and fundraising events, the Sixth Form Union officers provide valuable representation to students in the Transitus and Sixth and voice concerns or ideas to the Head of Sixth Form. However, individuals who are not officers in the Union are also encouraged to generate their own initiatives with the full support of the Sixth Form Team.
The parents of all students at UCS are encouraged to join and support the Parents’ Guild. The Guild offers opportunities for parents and families to meet one another socially, to enjoy shared social activities, and to raise funds for the school. The Guild is run by a committee of parents who share responsibilities, and who are always keen to welcome new members, particularly parents who would be happy to act as Guild form reps. Further details will be sent to parents early in the school year. Please contact parentsguild@ucs.org.uk with any queries.
MENTORING AND BUDDY SYSTEMS
Opportunities arise for students in the Transitus and Sixth Form to work with students and tutors in the Lower and Middle School on a regular basis. Responsibilities range from mentoring students over academic issues to discussing class projects and sporting events. The involvement of mentors may lead to running class discussions, starting up societies and organising events for the school’s Community Action programme.
UCS also encourages peermentoring where students share their knowledge and expertise and support each other in their academic programme.
A considerable number of the Transitus will have the opportunity to become buddies to new Year 7 students.
LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
There are numerous opportunities at this level of the school for students to involve themselves in positions of responsibility. UCS operates a system whereby students are encouraged to volunteer or apply for positions of responsibility throughout the school. They have the chance to
assist Form Tutors in the Lower and Middle Schools, organise and support Deme competitions, as well as fulfilling duties such as conducting tours of the school for prospective parents, helping out on parents’ evenings and mentoring younger students. It is hoped that as many students as possible will involve themselves in the day to day activities of the school. Opportunities to volunteer for responsibility of this kind will occur during the Transitus year.
Each year, students in Transitus are encouraged to apply for one of the Monitorships available in Year 13. The Monitors work closely with staff and students to promote the school’s ethos, both inwardly and outwardly. These positions of responsibility can only be applied for in writing and the successful applicants are individually interviewed by Senior staff. The Headmaster alone appoints the Captains and Vice Captains of Monitors.
5. Healthcare
CONFIDENTIAL MEDICAL HISTORY AND CONSENT FORM
Parents are requested to complete the online Medical History form. A link and the deadline for completion was included in the email with the digital version of this booklet.
MEDICAL INFORMATION & MEDICAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
All UCS medical policy and procedures documentation can be found on the school’s My School Portal website under ‘Medical’, and on the main UCS website. There is also some very useful information on medical conditions & first aid procedures such as asthma, head injuries, anaphylaxis, diabetes and much more.
Medical Examination
New students are invited for a medical interview during their first year, which includes a general health interview, examination by the School Doctor, height and weight measurement, blood pressure and vision testing. The purpose is to identify medical problems that may require further management or could affect learning.
UCS does not conduct routine dental or hearing checks. We advise students to have an annual check-up with their dentist and optician.
Medical Conditions including severe asthma, diabetes, epilepsy and severe allergies with risk of anaphylaxis
Parents of pupils who suffer from one of the above will be asked to complete an Individual Healthcare Plan, in order to ensure the students safety at school. You will then be contacted annually
for these to be updated. Teaching staff receive regular training regarding basic management of these conditions.
Medication
Over the counter medication such as paracetamol, ibuprofen (Nurofen) and Piriton (antihistamine) may sometimes be required and will be offered if parents have consented on the Medical History form. Prescribed medications may only be given to students if the school nurse has received signed instructions from parents. Forms can be requested from the School Nurse or downloaded from the School website.
With the exception of certain emergency medication e.g. asthma and anaphylaxis treatment, all medications (including controlled medication for ADHD) should be given to the School Nurse for safekeeping during the school day. No students should carry any medication, including homeopathic remedies on their persons. The detailed School Policy “Administration of Medications in School” can be viewed on the School website.
Injuries and Minor Ailments
A qualified nurse is on duty daily from 8.15am-4.15pm to treat injuries and minor ailments occurring at school. At times we also have a trained First Aider who assists the Nurse within the Medical Suite. All consultations assessed and treated in the Medical Suite are documented on a confidential medical computer system called Patient Tracker. If necessary, the consultation will then be emailed to the parent outlining details of any treatment given and any advice if necessary. Parents will be informed if they need to collect their child.
Please ensure you update the school if your contact details change in case we need to contact you urgently. Every parent should ensure that they nominate a responsible adult who is available to collect their child from school in their absence. To ensure student safety no student who is unwell will be allowed to leave school without a parent, guardian or nominated adult being present.
Parents are asked not to send students for specific advice that should be obtained from their family doctor.
Immunisations
It is important that students are up-to-date with their immunisations. Please provide the School with your child’s immunisation record. This can be obtained from your GP.
We suggest all students are vaccinated against Meningitis ACWY. It might be difficult to establish whether or not your child has had the vaccination. You may be able to find out from their GP records, on the NHS app or by contacting the nurse at their previous school. If uncertain, it is preferable to repeat the vaccination than to miss it. The vaccine can be obtained from your GP as can travel and other immunisations. Girls should have received the HPV immunisation before starting at UCS.
Immunisation against TB (BCG) is no longer routinely available. Please discuss with your GP if you consider that your child may be at a particular risk of developing TB (e.g. if he/she has travelled widely in high risk countries).
Infectious Diseases
If your child is infectious please do not send them into school. If you are unsure, please contact the school nurse for advice. As advised by Public Health England, your child must remain at home for at least 48 hours after any episode of diarrhoea and vomiting.
The school nurse must be informed immediately in the event of a case of chickenpox, shingles, measles or any serious illness that could cause problems for those who are pregnant or receiving treatment for cancer.
Mental Health Support in School
Schools are uniquely placed to support the mental health of children and young people. As an integral part of our pastoral role at UCS we have two onsite school counsellors who are able to support students through mental health difficulties. They both work at the school four days a week and can be accessed directly via email (samantha.marks@ucs.org.uk) & (kate. mills@ucs.org.uk) or via Form Tutors, Deme Wardens or through the School Nurse.
Contact
If you need to contact the School Nurse who is available between 8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday, please ring 020 7433 2173 or email nurse@ucs.org.uk
6. UCS Policies
University College School has a statutory requirement to publicise certain policies to current and prospective parents. There are some additional policies (i.e. beyond statutory requirements) that will also be useful for you and your children to be aware of.
Up to date versions of policies can be found on the UCS website under ‘Key Information’. Amongst these are included our policies on Safeguarding, Admissions, Curriculum, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (‘SEND’), Behaviour and Discipline, AntiBullying and Online Safety and Social Media. Further policies relating to the operation of the school will be available to you via My School Portal from September 2026.
If you wish, you can contact us and we will provide you with a paper version of any policies you wish to see. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any queries about the information contained in any of these documents.
7. Fees and Finance
FEES
Payment of Fees
Fee invoices are usually issued three weeks prior to the start of each term. In accordance with the UCS Terms & Conditions, the due date for payment of fees is the first day of term.
A separate invoice is prepared for each pupil and issued to the parent(s). Invoices show the itemised charges, including academic fees for the term, books and examinations. Lunch is included in termly fees.
To assist parents (and payers) the School operates a Direct Debit scheme which is the most convenient and economical method of fee collection. Parents may choose one of two Direct Debit arrangements:
• Termly Direct Debit, where the outstanding balance is collected on or shortly after the first day of each term. This is the most popular arrangement.
• Monthly Direct Debit, where the outstanding balance is collected in three equal monthly instalments, beginning on the first day of each term.
If you wish to pay by either of these Direct Debit schemes, please complete the mandate form available here and return to feequeries@ucs.org.uk. If you wish to transfer funds directly into our account, please include your child's surname as a reference in the transfer.
Our bank details are as follows:
Barclays Bank – Hampstead and Highgate Sort Code 20-36-32
A/C Name University College School
A/C Number 50291307
Late Payment of Fees
Please settle fee invoices promptly on the first day of term (unless you have enrolled into our Direct Debit Scheme). Interest on any overdue balances may be
charged at 1.5% per month above the base rate of the School’s bank. Where fees (including late payment and interest charges) are not paid by the fourth week of term, the pupil will normally be suspended from school. If non-payment persists until half-term, permanent exclusion is likely. Any costs incurred in the collection of unpaid fees will be recoverable in full from the parent (or payer).
Parents or payers who anticipate difficulty in settling fees are strongly advised to contact the Head of Finance, Dushan Premadasa (dushan.premadasa@ ucs.org.uk, 020 7433 2145) at an early stage.
Fees 2026-27
The termly school fee for the academic year (2026-27) is £11,437.
The Council of UCS will normally agree any changes in fees for the following academic year by its Summer Term meeting. Notification of revised fees will then be sent to parents (or the payer, if different) as soon as possible thereafter.
Specified Charges
Certain optional charges as explained below are added to all fee invoices unless parents indicate they wish to opt out of any. Parents wishing to do so should contact the bursary.
Parents’ Guild: Subscriptions for the Senior School and Junior Branch Parents’ Guilds are collected in the Autumn Term. Currently set at £10 per annum, these charges are passed on in their entirety to the Guilds and help to support social and other activities.
School Trips & Outings: Except by prior agreement, the cost of such trips and outings must be paid prior to departure. It is school policy that pupils in respect of whom fees are overdue will not be permitted to participate in such activities.
Fees for Instrumental Music Lessons: Music charges for pupils in both the
Senior School and Junior Branch will be invoiced separately and directly to parents by the respective Visiting Music Teacher. Terms and conditions relating to the payment of fees for Instrumental Music Lessons can be found on the relevant application form.
INSURANCE
Possessions
Loss of pupils' personal possessions at school, on journeys to and from school and when pupils are travelling on school trips, is not generally covered by the School. The School will, of course, endeavour to ensure that pupils' possessions are safeguarded. However, the School cannot accept liability for loss or damage to items of personal property and parents should ensure that their household contents insurance is adequate to provide cover. This is particularly important where items of high replacement cost are concerned such as bicycles, portable electronic, equipment, cameras, musical instruments, sports equipment and clothing. We firmly recommend that, if it can be avoided, pupils do not bring expensive items, or mobile telephones, to school and do not carry more money than they need for daily travel etc.
Accidents
All pupils at UCS are covered by a Personal Accident Insurance policy which will provide various levels of benefit in the event of accidental injury leading to permanent disability. The cover is provided 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and world-wide. Medical expenses and private healthcare costs are not covered. The Personal Accident Insurance Scheme is organised by Marsh. Any benefit payable under this scheme is in addition to any compensation which may be obtained following a successful liability claim. It should be noted that the School's Public Liability insurance covers only accidents for which the School is held legally liable, for example where an injury results from negligence on the part of the School or its staff.
Third Party Liability
As in the case of personal accidents, the School's Public Liability insurance covers only incidents for which the School can be held
legally liable, for example where damage to property results from negligence on the part of the School or its staff.
Accidental damage caused by a pupil to third party property will not be covered by the School. Most domestic insurance policies relating to buildings and/or contents include Third Party liability cover which should extend to members of the policyholder's family and to situations outside the home. Parents are advised to establish that they possess such cover.
SCHOOL FEES REFUND SCHEME
The school operates a fee refund scheme on an opt-in basis. If a pupil is unable to attend school for reasons specifically defined within the policy (e.g. ill-health, accident) for more than 5 days the insurer will, after a waiting period, reimburse the relevant portion of fees paid. Further details, an application form and the deadline date for return will be issued in advance of the autumn term.
Contact Details at a Glance
HEADMASTER AND DEPUTY HEADS
Mr M J Beard
Mr M T English
Ms R H Baxter
ASSISTANT HEADS
Mr P G Milton
Ms S Maze
Mr E D Roberts
Mr T P Underwood
Headmaster 0207 433 2102 hmsec@ucs.org.uk
Vice Master & Academic Director 0207 433 2112 mark.english@ucs.org.uk
Deputy Head (Pupils) 0207 433 2112 rebecca.baxter@ucs.org.uk
Head of Sixth Form 0207 433 2161 patrick.milton@ucs.org.uk
Head of Middle School 0207 433 2202 susannah.maze@ucs.org.uk
Head of Lower School 0207 435 2183 edward.roberts@ucs.org.uk
Director of Studies 0207 435 2105 thomas.underwood@ucs.org.uk
Ms J E S Lewis Pupils 0207 433 2128 jessica.lewis@ucs.org.uk
Mr D Holliday
Mr P S Miller
DEME WARDENS
Co-Curricular 0207 433 2311 david.holliday@ucs.org.uk
Director of Admissions & Director of Partnerships 0207 433 2117 ssadmissions@ucs.org.uk
Mr J Myers Baxters Deme Warden 0207 433 2171 baxters@ucs.org.uk
Mr A Mee Black Hawkins Deme Warden 0207 433 2191 bhawkins@ucs.org.uk
Ms C Rose Evans Deme Warden 0207 433 2304 evans@ucs.org.uk
Mr J Cooke
Flooks Deme Warden 0207 433 2302 flooks@ucs.org.uk
Mrs M Foster Olders Deme Warden 0207 433 2288 olders@ucs.org.uk
Mr O Bienias Underwoods Deme Warden 0207 433 2266 underwoods@ucs.org.uk
OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS
General enquiries 0207 435 2215 seniorschool@ucs.org.uk
Designated Safeguarding Lead 0207 433 2196 andrew.wilkes@ucs.org.uk
Absence 020 7433 2136 absence@ucs.org.uk
School Nurse 0207 433 2173 nurse@ucs.org.uk
School counsellor 0207 433 2173 samantha.marks@ucs.org.uk kate. mills@ucs.org.uk
Co-ordinator for pupils holding Bursary Awards 0207 433 2215 elizabeth.martin@ucs.org.uk
Financial/ school accounts matters 0207 433 2181 feequeries@ucs.org.uk
Music Administrator (for instrumental lessons) 0207 433 2315 musicadmin@ucs.org.uk
UCS Active 0207 433 212 club.reception@ucs.org.uk
Mr E Sawtell Director of Sport 0207 433 2321 edward.sawtell@ucs.org.uk
Mr C Dawe Director of Music 0207 433 2314 christopher.dawe@ucs.org.uk
Mr C Abbott Director of Drama 0207 433 2248 connor.abbott@ucs.org.uk
PHYSICAL ADDRESS
University College School, Frognal, Hampstead, NW3 6XH WEBSITE www.ucs.org.uk
UCS Senior School
UCS Junior Branch
