University College School
London, Camden, Greater London · NW3 6XH
Founded in 1830 and rooted in Camden, University College School is a large independent boys' school of around 958 pupils, with a sixth form of 361. Its generously staffed classrooms - the pupil-to-teacher ratio sits at roughly eight to one - reflect a school with the resources to teach in depth. The Independent Schools Inspectorate rated UCS "excellent" for both education and personal development, and found it fully compliant on regulatory matters. A notable thread is its commitment to access: bursary support worth £1.2m was awarded in 2023, with around sixty bursaries each year and 95% of those covering full fees.
958
Pupils
excellent
ISI
£32,913
Day fees / yr
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Open in Google Maps ↗Overview & data
- Gender
- Boys
- Type
- independent (fee-paying) school
- Age range
- 11-18
- Pupils
- 958
- Pupil:teacher ratio
- 8
- Location
- London, Camden, Greater London
- Website
- http://www.ucs.org.uk/
- Telephone
- 020 7435 2215
Entrance & admissions
- Entry age
- 11
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Headteacher
Headmaster Mark Beard
Latest results
Attainment 8
15.9
National average 46.9
GCSE grade 5+ (English & Maths)
0%
National average 47%
GCSE grade 9-7
91%
A-level A*-A
72%
A-level A*-B
93%
Teaching & academics
Academic results are strong at both major stages: 91% of GCSE grades fell in the 9-7 range, while 72% of A-level entries earned A*-A and 93% A*-B. The curriculum is wide, with an unusually broad language offering spanning French, German, Spanish, Italian and Chinese, alongside classical Latin and Greek at GCSE. Popular sixth-form choices include Mathematics, Economics, Sciences and the Humanities, and pupils can extend their study through the EPQ. Around 17% of pupils receive SEN support, suggesting a school that accommodates a range of learning needs.
Sixth form
- Sixth-form pupils
- 361
Popular A-level subjects
Qualifications offered
Learning support & SEN
- SEN support
- 17.16%
- EHC plans
- 0.08%
Arts & extracurricular
Scholarships
Languages
Popular GCSE subjects
Sport
Main sports
Beyond the classroom
Sport centres on rugby and football, and the creative arts have a clear presence, with Drama and Theatre Studies and Music featuring at both GCSE and A-level. A dedicated music scholarship signals that musical talent is actively sought and rewarded.
Ethos & heritage
- Founded
- 1830
- Boarding
- No
Mobile phone policy
Pupils in lower and middle school cannot access mobile phones during school day from registration onwards. All communication via school office. Sixth form can access mobile phones in designated areas, most notably sixth form centre. Not permitted to use in front of younger pupils.
Money matters
- Day fees (per year)
- £32,913
- Bursaries up to
- 100% of fees
Generous financial assistance available (worth £1.2m in 2023). Sixty bursaries each year, 95% of which are full fees.
Inspection reports
- ISI rating
- excellent
- ISI personal development
- excellent
- Last inspected
- 15 October 2024
The last word
A long-established Camden boys' school combining excellent inspection judgements with substantial bursary provision. Its standout strengths are academic breadth and a genuine commitment to widening access.
The Passmate verdict
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University College School 11+: frequently asked questions
Where is University College School located?
University College School is located at Frognal, Hampstead, London, NW3 6XH.
What type of school is University College School?
University College School is an independent (fee-paying) school in Greater London.
How many pupils attend University College School?
University College School has approximately 958 pupils on roll.
What is University College School's inspection rating?
University College School is inspected by the ISI and was judged "excellent" at its inspection on 15 October 2024.
Compiled from public data. Last checked June 2026.