ACS International School Egham and North London Collegiate School are both in London, about 29 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes. ACS International School Egham also offers IBCP, and North London Collegiate School also offers Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS and Pearson Edexcel IGCSE. Published annual fees are close, at £15,540 - 36,180 for ACS International School Egham and £25,620 - 29,751 for North London Collegiate School. Both take pupils from 4 to 18. North London Collegiate School is the larger school, with around 1,108 pupils to ACS International School Egham's 520.
|
A
ACS International School Egham
London, United Kingdom
|
N
North London Collegiate School
London, United Kingdom
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
|
Fees / year
|
Fees / year £15,540 - 36,180 | Fees / year £25,620 - 29,751 |
|
Age range
|
Age range 4 - 18 years | Age range 4 - 18 years |
|
Type
|
Type Co-educational | Type Girls School |
|
Curriculum
|
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme) | Curriculum IB (DP), Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Pearson Edexcel IGCSE |
|
Pupils
|
Pupils 520 | Pupils 1,108 |
|
Typical class size
|
Typical class size — | Typical class size 20 |
|
Instruction language
|
Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
|
Opened
|
Opened — | Opened 1850 |
|
Bus service
|
Bus service Yes | Bus service Yes |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
|
Location
|
Location London Road, Egham, Surrey TW20 0HS, England. Situated on 20 acres of Surrey countryside, close to London. | Location Located in north‑west London, NLCS's Senior School is on Dalkeith Grove in Stanmore (HA7 4SQ) and has a Canons Drive entrance in Edgware (HA8 7RJ). The school sits in the London Borough of Harrow. Stanmore Station (Jubilee Line) is about a 10‑minute walk to NLCS; Canons Park Station (Jubilee Line) is about 8 minutes away; Edgware Station (Northern Line) is about a 15‑minute walk to the Canons Drive entrance. |
|
Stages
|
Stages Lower School (Ages 4-11) and Upper School (Ages 11-18). | Stages Girls aged 4-18; Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form. |
|
School type
|
School type IB World School offering IBMYP, IBDP, IBCP, and a High School Diploma; one of only two UK schools to offer all four IB programmes. | School type Independent day school |
|
Pupil nationality mix
|
Pupil nationality mix The community includes 50+ nationalities. | Pupil nationality mix — |
|
Additional learning support
|
Additional learning support English as an Additional Language (EAL) is provided with specialist teachers to support multilingual learners, including Home Language Enrichment (optional after school). EAL assessment covers speaking, listening, reading, and writing to track progress and support inclusion. | Additional learning support The Medical Centre and Cedar Space provide health and wellbeing support, including a Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead, a School Nurse, a healthcare professional, and two counsellors; tailored support to meet individual needs. |
|
Country affiliation
|
Country affiliation England | Country affiliation United Kingdom |
|
Religious affiliation
|
Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation — |
|
School day structure
|
School day structure Lower School day runs 8:30-15:40; Busing begins 15:30-15:40; After-school opportunities and wrap-around care (JAG Club) run until 18:00. | School day structure Junior School day: First School (Reception–Year 2) arrives 8.30–8.45am; registration 8.50am; lessons finish 3.20pm; Lower School (Years 3–6) arrives after 8.15am; registration 8.40am; lessons finish 3.25pm; after-school clubs 3.30–4.00pm. Senior School day: nine 35-minute lessons; arrivals 8.15am–8.35am; Period 1 8.40–9.15; Period 2 9.15–9.50; Form time/assembly 9.50–10.25. |
|
Bus service details
|
Bus service details ACS Egham operates an extensive busing service with Door-to-Door and Shuttle options, plus a Late Bus for after-school activities. The service is supported by the Vectare transport platform with real-time tracking. There are three shuttle zones and a premium Door-to-Door option where accessible. Busing is charged separately from tuition and managed by the school's Transport Co-ordinator. | Bus service details Coach and minibus services operate; morning coaches aim to reach the School by 8.25am. |
| Fees | Fees | |
|
Fee details
|
Fee details Application fees - A non-refundable application fee of GBP 330 (inc. VAT) is payable with each application. Tuition fees by year group (per semester and annual amounts) - Pre-Kindergarten (Ages 4–5): Per semester GBP 7,770 — Annual GBP 15,540. - Kindergarten (Ages 5–6): Per semester GBP 12,930 — Annual GBP 25,860. - Grades 1–2 (Ages 6–8): Per semester GBP 13,890 — Annual GBP 27,780. - Grades 3–4 (Ages 8–10): Per semester GBP 13,980 — Annual GBP 27,960. - Grades 5–6 (Ages 10–12): Per semester GBP 16,230 — Annual GBP 32,460. - Grades 7–8 (Ages 12–14): Per semester GBP 16,320 — Annual GBP 32,640. - Grades 9–10 (Ages 14–16): Per semester GBP 18,540 — Annual GBP 37,080. - Grade 11 (Ages 16–17): Per semester GBP 18,570 — Annual GBP 37,140. (Includes university-placement support but excludes external exam and university application fees.) - Grade 12 (Ages 17–18): Per semester GBP 18,720 — Annual GBP 37,440. (Includes university-placement support but excludes external exam and university application fees.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition and related invoices are issued twice per academic year (once per semester). ACS issues invoices and handles them through the School Fees Office. For the 2026–27 academic year, semester invoice issue and due dates are set in June and November respectively; invoices will state the school's bank details. Any bank charges incurred by payment are charged to the student's fee account. ACS is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit-related regulated activities. Deposit and one-off fees - Enrolment deposit (refundable): GBP 1,500 payable after acceptance to reserve a place; retained during enrolment and refunded within three months of contract termination net of any outstanding liabilities. - One-off campus/development fee (non-refundable): GBP 1,680 (inc. VAT) charged during the first year of enrolment for Grades K–12. Busing / transport fees - Door-to-door bus (Zone 1): Per semester GBP 1,350 — Annual GBP 2,700; Return service per semester GBP 2,090 — Annual GBP 4,180. Zone 2 door-to-door rates are slightly higher. Shuttle services are available with zone-based per-semester and annual charges (examples: Shuttle Zone 1 single per semester GBP 690 — annual GBP 1,380; shuttle return per semester GBP 1,080 — annual GBP 2,160). Late-bus (per journey) charges apply (example: Zone 1 GBP 6 per journey). Bus fees are provisional and subject to change. Additional costs and recurring supplementary charges - External exam fees: anticipated costs are approximately GBP 700 for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and approximately GBP 200 for the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP); IBMYP eAssessment charges for Grade 10 are determined by examining bodies (May 2027 session anticipated around GBP 500 for selected subjects). - Annual IT service fee (Grades 9–12): GBP 60 (inc. VAT). - Services for students requiring moderate SEN support (Level 3): GBP 4,740 per year (GBP 2,370 per semester); mild SEN support is included in standard tuition. - Lost iPad charge: up to GBP 350 for lost or misplaced devices; accidental damage is generally covered but deliberate damage or misuse will incur repair/replacement charges. - Lost or damaged textbooks/library books: replacement or damage charges apply where items are lost or damaged beyond fair wear and tear. - Food, certain trips, co-curricular activities and some extracurricular items may incur additional, itemised charges. Boarding fees (if applicable) - Boarding is not applicable to ACS Egham; the campus operates as a day school. Refund information - The enrolment deposit (GBP 1,500) is refundable and will be returned within three months of contract termination, subject to deduction of any outstanding fees, notice-period liabilities, or supplementary charges. Fee payment options and related arrangements - Invoices will include the school's bank details and an accompanying fee sheet that specifies accepted payment methods; any bank charges incurred by fee payment are added to the pupil's fees account. A third-party instalment/finance option (My School Fee Plan) is available for managing payments. ACS will provide separate invoices or statements when asking for payment and will not request payment to alternative bank details by email or phone. Notes on repeating year / special arrangements - Tuition fees for students repeating any part of Grade 12 are available from the School Fees Office. Summary of principal fixed amounts (quick reference) - Application fee (non-refundable): GBP 330. - Enrolment deposit (refundable): GBP 1,500. - One-off campus/development fee (non-refundable): GBP 1,680. - Example day tuition (per year): ranges from GBP 15,540 (Pre-Kindergarten) to GBP 37,440 (Grade 12). | Fee details Application / Entry assessment fee - Entry assessment fee (non‑refundable): GBP 150 for UK applicants and GBP 200 for overseas applicants. Tuition fees (per term and per year) - Junior School: GBP 8,540 per term; GBP 25,620 per year (three terms). - Senior School: GBP 9,917 per term; GBP 29,751 per year (three terms). Coaches and lunches (additional annual charges) - Coach travel: GBP 2,937 per year for a return coach fare (billed termly). GBP 2,329 per year for a single coach fare (billed termly). - Lunches: GBP 1,215 per year for pupils in the Lower and Senior School (billed termly). GBP 1,029 per year for the First School. Senior School pupils may alternatively bring a packed lunch. - No additional charge is made for textbooks, stationery or examination fees. Deposit - An Acceptance Deposit equal to one half of one term's fees is required when a place is accepted. The Acceptance Deposit is retained until the pupil leaves and is repaid as a credit on the final fee bill (unless donated). A pro‑rata deposit applies to holders of bursary awards. An Additional Deposit may be required where the pupil's normal residence is outside the United Kingdom or where fees are paid from accounts or income outside the UK. Billing schedule and payment terms - Billing frequency options: Termly in full on the first day of each term, or monthly in ten equal instalments. Annual charges (tuition, buses, lunches etc.) are collected in ten equal instalments on the first day of the month from 1 August to 1 May. Extras (for example trips) are collected on 1 August for the Autumn Term, 1 January for the Spring Term and 1 May for the Summer Term and are added to the existing instalment collections. Invoices are issued by email in advance of the term to which they relate. Fee payment methods and administrative charges - Payment by direct debit is the standard method; fees for each term are due as cleared funds by direct debit before the commencement of the term unless a separate arrangement has been agreed. Payment by cheque or by bank transfer is permitted but the School reserves the right to charge an administration fee of GBP 50 each time such a payment is made. Cash payments are not accepted. The School may refuse a payment if it is not satisfied as to the identity of the payer or the source of the funds. Agreements with third‑party payers do not release parents from liability if the third party defaults. Other costs and extras - Extras may include charges for educational visits, overseas trips, additional tuition, coach charges, lunches, clothing and equipment, photographs or other items ordered by parents or pupils, and damage where the pupil has caused wilful loss or damage. Extras are billed on the dates noted under the billing schedule. Some financial assistance awards may include support for uniform, lunches, coach transport, essential curriculum materials, exam fees and compulsory school trips. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable; the School is a mainstream day school for girls aged 4 to 18 years. No boarding fees apply. Refunds, cancellations and notice - Fees are non‑refundable in the ordinary course: fees will not be refunded, reduced or waived for pupil absence through illness, for a shortened Term or extended vacation, for early release before or after public examinations, for temporary closure due to adverse weather, or except in exceptional cases at the sole discretion of the Headmistress. An offer and acceptance made entirely at distance may be cancelled within the statutory 14‑day cancellation period; in such cases Acceptance and Additional Deposits, if paid, will be refunded together with any fees paid pro‑rata for educational services already provided. If parents withdraw a pupil without giving at least one full Term's written notice they will be liable to pay one Term's fees in lieu of notice (special rules apply where a pupil leaves at the end of Year 13). Acceptance and Additional Deposits may be refunded in specified circumstances as set out in the School's terms and conditions. Summary notes on inclusions - Textbooks, stationery and examination fees are included within the published fees and are not charged separately. Extras such as trips, additional tuition or optional activities are billed separately on the dates listed under the billing schedule. Bursaries and scholarships are discretionary and any award terms (including what costs they cover) are notified at the time of offer. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
|
Boarding arrangements
|
Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
|
Uniform requirement
|
Uniform requirement Dress code rather than a uniform. Dress code reflects independent thinking, creativity, and responsible choice-making. | Uniform requirement Pupils wear school uniform until the end of Year 11; Sixth Formers are not required to wear uniform. |
|
Food options
|
Food options In-house catering team provides fresh, nutritious meals following School Food Trust guidelines in a modern dining hall; a Lower School salad bar is available; children may bring their own lunch from home. | Food options Thomas Franks provides healthy, balanced meals with three‑week rotating menus and accommodation for dietary needs and allergens. Breakfast is available in the dining room from 07:30 to 08:15, and a supervised packed tea is offered after school for Junior School pupils. |
|
House system
|
House system — | House system The school is organized through a house system with inter‑house competitions. |
|
Governance and ownership
|
Governance and ownership ACS Egham is part of ACS International Schools, a UK registered charity since 2018. The charity provides means-tested financial support (bursaries) to enable access to education. | Governance and ownership The school is The North London Collegiate School Limited, a Company Limited by Guarantee and Registered Charity (1115843). It is governed by a Governing Body, including the Chair of Governors, Gabrielle Gower OBE. |
| Academics | Academics | |
|
Curriculum details
|
Curriculum details The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework. Upper School follows IBMYP (ages 11-16) and offers IBDP or IBCP (ages 16-18) and an ACS High School Diploma. EAL support is available. Home Language Enrichment is provided. Co-Curricular offerings include Sport, Performing Arts, and Clubs and Activities. ACS Egham has 50+ nationalities. ACS Egham is the only school in England to offer all four IB programmes. | Curriculum details In Years 7–9 the curriculum follows the National Curriculum, and in Years 10–11 pupils study the Edexcel IGCSE syllabus, with all students taking IGCSE Language and Literature in Year 11. In the Sixth Form the school offers two pathways: A Levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, with English Literature available through IB and Cambridge Pre-U. The Mathematics department uses the Edexcel IGCSE syllabus in Years 10–11, and about three-quarters of Sixth Form students study A Level or IB Mathematics, with some choosing Further Mathematics or IB Higher Level. Pupils can study six modern languages—French, Spanish, German, Russian, Mandarin and Italian—with language exchanges and a Polyglot Society. The Music Department offers IB, A Level and IGCSE music syllabuses, following Cambridge IGCSE Music and AQA A Level Music. |
|
Student teacher ratio
|
Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
|
Exam results
|
Exam results IBDP results 2025: 35/45 average; 43/45 highest; 100% pass rate. IBDP Points to A-Levels: 40 points corresponds to A*A*A*A*, 38 points to A*A*A, 35 points to AAA. | Exam results IB Diploma 2025 average score 42.94, making NLCS the second highest performing IB school in the world and the best in the country. A Level 2025 results were outstanding with 54.3% A* grades, 86.1% A*-A and 96.1% A*-B. GCSE/IGCSE 2025 results were record-breaking with 83.4% grade 9, 95.9% 9/8 and 99.2% 9/8/7. |
|
Higher education progression
|
Higher education progression Two University and College Counselling is provided by two Counsellors. The majority of ACS Egham students attend universities in the UK, US and Europe. In 2024 ACS Egham graduated 68 students; 53 UCAS applications; 277 university applications; 79% success rate; 57 universities in 11 countries. | Higher education progression Notable university destinations include Cambridge, Oxford, Imperial College London, UCL, King's College London and LSE, with many graduates also going to Yale, Brown, Columbia, Johns Hopkins, McGill and other leading institutions. Destinations span the UK, USA, Canada and Europe. |
|
Gifted and talented
|
Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented The Sophie Bryant Scholarship commemorates the intellectual brilliance of Sophie Bryant and offers an individualized mentoring and enrichment programme. It includes termly mentoring sessions, a Sophie Bryant Symposium, a Sophie Bryant Journal and potential fee remission, and is offered to a small number of girls entering NLCS in Year 7 and Year 12 who demonstrate a deep love of learning. |
|
Academic calendar
|
Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
|
Social & emotional learning
|
Social & emotional learning The school has a Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) program that shapes compassionate, confident, and responsible individuals. It integrates character development, wellbeing, and life skills across learning, and promotes ACS values in every aspect of learning. PSHE is delivered across the school through cross-disciplinary work, whole-cohort assemblies, and PSHE classes. PSHE topics include mental health and wellbeing, living in the wider world, and relationships, with age-appropriate content from Grade 1 to Grade 10. The program supports social-emotional growth within a caring and inclusive school culture. | Social & emotional learning NLCS places safeguarding and wellbeing at the center of pastoral care. Staff receive regular safeguarding training to recognise and respond to concerns. The school operates a whole-school Mental Health and Wellbeing strategy, promoting regular physical activity and addressing adolescence challenges such as social media pressures and healthy boundaries around tech. The wider pastoral team includes Heads of Year, Heads of Section, a Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead, the School Nurse, a Healthcare Professional and two Counsellors. The Medical Centre and Cedar Space provide spaces and activities for physical and emotional wellbeing, including Mindfulness and wellbeing-focused clubs. Peer support and PSHE help students develop resilience, confidence and healthy relationships. |
|
Special educational needs (SEN)
|
Special educational needs (SEN) ACS provides Special Education Needs and Disability (SEN/D) support for students with learning differences across four broad areas of need: communication and interaction; cognition and learning; social, emotional and mental health; and sensory and/or physical. The policy emphasizes inclusive practice, removing barriers to learning, high-quality teaching, early identification, and collaboration with parents and the wider community. It is informed by Universal Design for Learning to ensure accessible and meaningful learning opportunities for all students. The school uses a Multi-Tier Service System (MTSS) with three tiers of service, with levels reviewed at least annually and adjusted to student progress. Dedicated SEN/D staff work with mainstream teachers to integrate support into the classroom, with on-site external specialists available when needed (at parental expense) and case managers coordinating services. | Special educational needs (SEN) NLCS operates a whole-school SEND approach. Every teacher is a teacher of all pupils, including those with SEND, and each pupil is supported to reach her full potential, academically, socially and emotionally. The school has two SEND advisers: Mrs Lisa Weisgard (Junior School including EYFS) and Mrs Sonya Beale (Senior School). The SEND policy emphasises equality under the Equality Act 2010 and the Children and Families Act 2014, and embraces the neurodiversity of its pupil population. The policy follows a graduated approach (Assess, Plan, Do, Review) to identify and address needs and involves parents in planning and reviewing support. It covers admissions, assessment and the provision of Individual Support Plans, with liaison to outside professionals where appropriate. |
|
English as an additional language
|
English as an additional language At ACS Egham, the Lower School EAL programme supports young learners in a welcoming environment where they can make friends and engage with the curriculum. Specialist EAL teachers work with students across language competencies, and progress is carefully monitored. Early and primary years learn English in an immersion setting, using their full linguistic repertoire in a process called translanguaging to create an inclusive learning environment. The EAL programme provides small-group lessons, in-class support from specialist teachers, and optional Home Language Enrichment after school. For students new to English, progression follows from Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills (BICS) to Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP). The EAL curriculum combines targeted language development with access to content and regular assessment across speaking, listening, reading, and writing. | English as an additional language The School has an English as an Additional Language (EAL) Policy. EAL is defined as language used at home differing from the language of instruction. EAL pupils may come from multilingual backgrounds and may be fully bilingual. The policy promotes equality of access to the curriculum and compliance with the Equality Act 2010. A five-stage model of English acquisition is used, ranging from New to English through Fluent. When pupils are identified as having EAL needs, the Deputy Head (Academic) works with SEND advisers to provide support, including Individual Support Plans and targeted differentiation; additional English teaching is provided as required. |
|
Mental wellbeing
|
Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is central to ACS Egham's educational philosophy. In Lower School, wellbeing aims to support physical, emotional, and mental health through a caring environment, self-care, boundaries, and engaging activities that foster resilience and a sense of belonging. Mental health resources, positive relationships with teachers, physical activity, and outdoor learning contribute to overall wellbeing. Mindfulness and self-care practices, movement breaks, and access to calm spaces help students develop healthy coping strategies. The wellbeing provisions support social and emotional growth alongside academic success. | Mental wellbeing NLCS runs a school-wide Mental Health and Wellbeing strategy. The team includes a Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead, School Nurse, part-time Health Care Professional and two part-time Counsellors. The Medical Centre and the Cedar Space host wellbeing spaces and activities. The PSHE programme supports pupils to develop resilience, healthy relationships and to manage issues such as online safety and body image. Tooled Up Education provides resources to families to support wellbeing at home. |
|
Safeguarding
|
Safeguarding ACS Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy emphasizes that safeguarding is everyone's business and that ACS provides an environment where children feel safe, valued, and able to raise concerns. The policy aligns with legislation and guidance such as Keeping Children Safe in Education (2025) and applies to all staff, trustees, and leadership. Its aims include safeguarding welfare, early identification of need, and coordinated action across the school and with external agencies, with a clear reporting and escalation process. The policy holds the welfare of the child as paramount, maintains zero tolerance for sexual violence and harassment, and promotes safeguarding through partnerships with parents and services. It also covers online safety, information sharing, and safeguarding responsibilities in both school and community contexts. | Safeguarding NLCS has a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy. Safeguarding is central to all activities and all staff are trained to identify and respond to concerns. The school designates safeguarding leads; details are available in the policy. The policy sets out staff responsibilities to identify and report abuse and to involve external services when necessary. Early help is provided by staff, and safeguarding information is kept confidential and shared only with those who need to know. Safeguarding records are securely stored and disposed of in line with policy. The policy requires at least annual safeguarding training for staff and annual review by the Governing Body, with oversight by the Pastoral, Safeguarding and Compliance Committee. |
|
Safeguarding policy
|
Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
|
Facilities overview
|
Facilities overview ACS Egham sits on 20 acres of Surrey countryside and provides dedicated spaces for Lower School and Upper School. The campus includes Art and Design Technology studios equipped with 3D printers and laser cutters, Coding Labs with up-to-date computers and software, and a Performing Arts Centre for drama and other productions. The IB Centre and Common Room support the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and High School and Lower/Middle School libraries offer flexible spaces for reading and research. An outdoor learning landscape features Gardens and Grounds, Forest School, multiple playgrounds, an Upper School trim trail, and an outdoor amphitheatre, complemented by extensive outdoor sports facilities. | Facilities overview The school sits on a 30-acre site with extensive playing fields. It has a Sports Hall, Gym, pitches, cricket nets, tennis and netball courts, and a swimming pool. The NLCS Drawing School offers facilities for drawing, painting, photography, CAD, print-making, textile design, welding and ceramics. The McLauchlan Library houses over 38,000 resources, with the Anderson Reading Room for Sixth Form and full digital access via Accessit, and the IDEAS Hub hosts exhibitions and interdisciplinary work. The Engineering, Design and Technology facilities include a CAD Suite with 3D printing and laser cutting, supported by five computer suites and three specialist suites including two digital language labs |
|
Sports facilities
|
Sports facilities Woodlee Sports Centre provides the main indoor arena for a range of sports, a fitness suite, a dance studio, and spaces for gymnastics and other activities. The indoor facilities include two FIBA basketball courts, eight badminton courts, two volleyball courts, and an indoor climbing wall with safety harnesses. An outdoor sport offering includes two covered outdoor tennis courts along with grounds for tennis, track and field, football, and softball. There are also indoor/outdoor climbing and traversing walls and spaces designed for spectator viewing during events. | Sports facilities The school has a Sports Hall, Gym, pitches, cricket nets, Tennis and Netball Courts, and a Swimming Pool. Facilities are located on the 30-acre site with extensive playing fields and a track. The sport programme encompasses netball, lacrosse, badminton, tennis, swimming, cross-country, dance, athletics, gymnastics, and fencing, with additional offerings in cricket, water polo and skiing. The indoor swimming pool and fitness suite support sport and fitness for all levels of ability. Cricket nets and a range of outdoor pitches and courts enable competitive fixtures and clubs |
|
Academic facilities
|
Academic facilities Art and DT studios offer materials, tools and cutting-edge technology for creative exploration, including 3D printers and laser cutters. Coding Labs are equipped with up-to-date computers, interactive whiteboards and coding software. The Performing Arts Centre supports drama at Pre-K through Grade 12 and IB Diploma level, with a control booth for backstage operations. The IB Centre and Common Room serve as hubs for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The High School Library forms part of the Hub, while Lower and Middle School libraries provide vibrant spaces with books in native languages and flexible seating. The Lower School Maker Space (ELMS) enables independent and group research and project work in a bright, central area. | Academic facilities In 2020, the Design and Technology facilities were refurbished to provide a CAD Suite with 3D printing and laser cutting, a new studio and a dedicated workshop, with a second workshop added in 2022 and moving to the IDEAS Hub in 2024. The Computing department has five computer suites, three specialist suites including two digital language labs, and a Sixth Form study suite. The Drama Department uses a dedicated Performing Arts Centre, a proscenium auditorium with a hydraulic orchestra pit, and a programme of regular productions and visiting performances. The McLauchlan Library offers 38,000 resources, a range of premium digital resources and the Accessit catalogue, with the IDEAS Hub hosting exhibitions and collaborative work |
|
Extra curricular facilities
|
Extra curricular facilities Co-curricular activities are designed to extend learning beyond the classroom by bringing together art, culture, social skills, academics and compassion, with students leading events and applying their learning in practical, collaborative ways. | Extra curricular facilities Drama provides extensive productions and opportunities for involvement across the year, including Edinburgh Fringe performances and a dedicated Performing Arts Centre. Music offers around 500 instrumental lessons weekly by more than 25 visiting specialists, with choirs, orchestras and ensembles, plus tours and scholarships. Art & Design runs the NLCS Drawing School with workshops and trips to major European cities. Sport features an extensive programme on the 30-acre site with a wide range of sports and fixtures. Extra-curricular clubs include a Digital Photography Club, IT Club, CAD/CAM, and an Engineering Society with regular workshops; language exchanges and other language-related activities are also offered |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
|
History
|
History — | History North London Collegiate School was founded in April 1850 by Frances Mary Buss, who opened the school in her family home at 46 Camden Street. Buss championed girls' education and helped shape the school's early curriculum, including a revolutionary science program. As the school grew, it moved from Camden Road to Sandall Road, before relocating to Canons in Edgware; the Canons estate was purchased in 1929 and the move was completed in May 1940. The school has continued to innovate, including offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma alongside A levels and the Pre-U. |
|
Community
|
Community — | Community NLCS is a community for life, with the relationship between the school and its pupils extending beyond their time at Canons. The school describes its ongoing commitment to students' development and lifelong engagement with the NLCS community. The NLCS Community page also notes bursaries to widen access to NLCS education. |
|
Parent teacher association
|
Parent teacher association — | Parent teacher association All NLCS parents are members of the Parents' Guild, which organises social events for the School community. The Guild also supports activities and manages good-as-new uniform sales, musical instrument exchanges and a babysitter list. Regular events include the annual Fireworks Display, Bring & Buy Sale, the Parents' Quiz, and teas at Open Days, Taster Afternoons and Junior School functions. Parents readily help in the school libraries, on trips and in special activities. The Guild has its own Facebook group: NLCS – Parents' Guild. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
|
Academic & intellectual
|
Academic & intellectual STEAM activities include Destination Imagination (UK host), Coding Club, Digital Leaders, and Rocket Club. International Mindedness and Debate includes Model United Nations and annual conferences in The Hague and other cities. | Academic & intellectual The Sixth Form offers a Senior Societies programme with around 50 societies to explore academic passions in depth. These societies host external speakers, publish journals, and lead discussions or conferences, with events such as Black History Month and International Women's Day. Year 12 and 13 students can apply for leadership posts and participate in clubs and other extracurricular activities, shaping the school's intellectual life. |
|
Arts & creative
|
Arts & creative Arts flourish at ACS Egham through School Productions (musical and non-musical), School Band (Wall of Sound), choirs including the O2 Choir, Rock Bands, String Quartet, and individual music lessons. | Arts & creative The school provides a broad range of musical opportunities as part of its extracurricular life. There are numerous performing opportunities, including end-of-term concerts and the Old House Concert Series, with a Steinway Grand Piano in the Drummond Room for performances. Students can participate in auditioned and non-auditioned ensembles, including an a cappella group and a choir that performs in care homes; the department also arranges masterclasses and visits and coordinates external engagements. |
|
Cultural & language
|
Cultural & language Home Language Enrichment (HLE) is offered from Grades 1 to 10 for students whose first language is not English to maintain their native language and culture. Classes are mixed grade with tutors devising programs based on students' needs, held after school for 1 hour per week. HLE is offered as part of the school fee structure at no additional cost to parents. | Cultural & language Language exchanges are arranged with partner schools in France, Spain and Germany, and there are regular London-based cultural excursions to museums, theatres and cinemas. The department competes in national and in-house competitions, including the Andrea Bell Competition, UKLO, foreign language debates and the national MFL translation bee, and hosts events such as the Hispanic Theatre Festival. A Polyglot Society promotes Modern Languages through a Languages Week, a languages symposium, a mentor system for younger learners and guest speakers. |
|
Social & hobbies
|
Social & hobbies A typical selection of co-curricular activities includes Basketball, Polo, Climbing, Football, Judo, Dance, Textile Crafts, Scrapbooking, French Activities Club, and Jag Club. Cosmic Yoga / Mindfulness and CREST Awards are also offered. Extended Day Care provides before and after school care (8:00–8:30 before school, 15:20–18:00 after school). | Social & hobbies Nearly 100 clubs run at lunchtime or after-school each week, many student-led, covering topics from philosophy to climate change, human rights to chess, and dance to literature. In Sixth Form, extra-curricular clubs include a Community Outreach Programme with options such as First Aid or Sign Language, and opportunities to write for a weekly newspaper or work on Theatre Tech. Sport and physical activities are available through a broad program with frequent fixtures, inter-house competitions, and specialist sessions. |
|
Community & service
|
Community & service Service learning opportunities include the Nepal outreach programme. | Community & service The Community Service Programme enables every Senior School student to participate in charitable work and involves regular visits to a local care home for the elderly and to a school for disabled children, along with fundraising events. The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is offered, providing challenges and adventure as part of NLCS extracurricular life. |
|
Leadership & professional
|
Leadership & professional Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) programme is open to students in Grades 9-12, with Bronze, Silver and Gold awards recognizing achievement in community service, environmental conservation, teamwork and expeditions. | Leadership & professional There are around 50 Senior Societies giving students leadership opportunities and room to develop their interests. Societies host external speakers, publish journals, and lead discussions and conferences, and run subject weeks and major events such as Black History Month and International Women's Day. Year 12 and 13 students are encouraged to apply for responsibility posts and participate in clubs and extra-curricular activities. |
|
Lifestyle & wellbeing
|
Lifestyle & wellbeing Woodlee Sports Centre provides extensive facilities including a dance studio, fitness suite, two FIBA basketball courts, eight badminton courts, two volleyball courts and an indoor climbing wall. Outdoor spaces include Forest School, Gardens and Grounds, and an outdoor amphitheatre for wellbeing and outdoor learning. Wellbeing activities include Cosmic Yoga / Mindfulness and Extended Day Care offers before and after-school care. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport at NLCS is for everyone, with a programme that includes weekly fixtures, inter-house competitions, recreational clubs and specialist sessions. The programme supports wellbeing, confidence and personal growth through movement. Facilities include a Canons Sports Centre with a sports hall, gym, pitches and an indoor swimming pool. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
|
Language provision
|
Language provision French and Spanish are offered as modern foreign languages from Grade 1, with Kindergarten receiving taster lessons in both languages before choosing which to follow beyond Grade 5. English as an Additional Language (EAL) supports learners to develop the English proficiency needed to thrive in IBPYP, IBMYP, IBDP, and IBCP. Home Language Enrichment (HLE) runs from Grades 1-10 for students whose first language is not English to maintain their native language and culture. For Diploma pathways, there are opportunities to maintain and develop home language(s) through School Support Self-Taught Literature courses, a pathway toward the IB Bilingual Diploma, and many languages are supported by after-school Home Language Enrichment opportunities. | Language provision Six modern languages are taught: French, Spanish, German, Russian, Mandarin and Italian. In Years 8 and 9, pupils choose any two of these languages. In Years 10-11, a Modern Language is compulsory for all pupils, with optional courses including French, German, Italian, Mandarin, Russian and Spanish. Foreign language support includes native-speaking assistants who provide conversation sessions in all six languages to pupils from Year 10 upwards. |
|
Bilingual teaching
|
Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
|
Immersion programs
|
Immersion programs — | Immersion programs Native-speaking language assistants provide conversation sessions in all six languages to pupils from Year 10 upwards. Language exchanges are held with schools in France, Spain and Germany, and study visits to Italy, Russia and China are offered. The lessons emphasise using the target language where possible, with language culture supported by a Polyglot Society and a dedicated Modern Languages Week. |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
|
Awards
|
Awards Eco-Schools Silver Award (2021) – sustainability achievement across ACS Egham. Global Good Awards Silver Award (2022-23) – for partnerships locally, nationally and internationally (awarded to ACS Partnerships). World's Best School Prizes – Community Collaboration (Top 10 finalist) – recognition of ACS Partnerships as a notable contributor. | Awards — |
|
Accreditations
|
Accreditations New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) accreditation to offer a US High School Diploma with Honours. International Baccalaureate (IB) authorization to offer the full continuum of IB programmes as IB World School (PYP, MYP, CP, DP). European Council of International Schools (ECIS) – membership. Council of International Schools (CIS) – membership. Independent Schools Association (ISA) – membership. Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) – inspection; ACS Egham meets all ISI standards for leadership, governance; quality of education; safeguarding and student wellbeing. | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
|
Admissions
|
Admissions 1. Enquiry: Find out what the school offers in terms of curriculum and facilities. It is recommended to visit for an Open Day or Personal Tour to explore the campus, meet academic staff, and discuss admissions with the team. The admissions team provides guidance throughout the enquiry and application process. The rolling admission process means applications can be submitted at any time. 2. Application: Applications are accepted year-round as long as the child has the right to study in the UK. A non-refundable application fee is payable online. The online application takes a holistic approach, assessing candidates by reviewing previous school records, teacher references, a student questionnaire, and standardised test scores. Start your application via the online portal. 3. Review: Once the online application is received, it is assessed by the Admissions Team with the information provided. Additional documents may be requested as needed. The team will inform you of the outcome as soon as possible. 4. Admission: If the application is successful, you will receive an offer of a place. To secure the place, a non-refundable enrolment deposit is payable and is set against the second semester tuition fees. If the grade is at capacity, the applicant will be waitlisted and you will be contacted promptly to complete the remaining admission steps. For more detail on fees and deposits, see the Fees section. 5. Welcome: The team will provide all necessary information prior to the first day, including cafeteria, transport, school platforms, subject selection, and visa compliance to ensure a smooth start. Grade placement information is provided to help align your child with the correct year group. The Welcome also notes practical information for international families, including a Welcome Guide. | Admissions Entry points for NLCS: 4+ (40 places), 7+ (8–10 places), 11+ (approximately 70–75 places), and 16+ (approximately 20 places). There are also Junior School Occasional Places and Years 8–10 Occasional Places. Registrations for 2026 entry are closed. NLCS seeks students with strong academic potential, curiosity about the world, ambition, and readiness to embrace opportunities, and it values diversity. A range of scholarships and bursaries is offered, including music scholarships, sports scholarships, and the Sophie Bryant Scholarship, available to Senior School entrants at 11+ and 16+. Occasional places may be available in other year groups, and School in Action mornings can be booked to visit. |
|
Scholarships
|
Scholarships ACS Egham bursaries are offered to students with exceptional personal and academic potential who would benefit from an ACS education but whose family circumstances mean they cannot meet full school fees. Bursary students must also live within the busing catchment area of the school. The bursary programme has been suspended for the academic year 2026/2027; details of the 2027/2028 bursary application schedule will be published in 2026. Bursaries are means-tested and can cover up to 100% of tuition fees, with the possibility of including additional costs. Bursary awards are for up to seven years and are reviewed annually; decisions are communicated during March prior to the start of the new academic year. | Scholarships Music Scholarships are offered at 11+ and 16+ for outstanding musical promise; Handel Music Scholarship provides a remission of 10–20% of school fees and 11+ scholarships last for the duration of studies while 16+ scholarships cover the duration of Sixth Form. The Sophie Bryant Scholarship is awarded to a small number of Year 7 or Year 12 entrants, includes mentoring and enrichment, and usually fee remission (not guaranteed); assessment follows the 11+ or 16+ process and is open to external and some internal applicants. Sports Scholarships are open to external 11+ and 16+ applicants as well as current Year 6 and Year 11 pupils; candidates must demonstrate high-level sport and potential; recipients receive mentorship, a strength and conditioning programme, some NLCS kit, nutritional support, and usually fee remission; assessments include fitness tests, skill evaluations, and interviews. |
|
Waitlist
|
Waitlist If the grade is at capacity, your child will be waitlisted; when a place becomes available, ACS Egham will contact you immediately to complete the admission process. | Waitlist — |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
Comparing more schools, or want notes and ratings of your own? Build your own compare board.