ICS London International School - Primary School vs Southbank International School - Hampstead Campus
ICS London International School - Primary School and Southbank International School - Hampstead Campus are both in London, about 3 km apart. Both schools follow an IB curriculum. Published annual fees are £22,890 - 28,860 at ICS London International School - Primary School and £20,172 - 38,613 at Southbank International School - Hampstead Campus, which puts Southbank International School - Hampstead Campus roughly 14% higher. ICS London International School - Primary School takes pupils from 3 to 11, and Southbank International School - Hampstead Campus from 2 to 11. ICS London International School - Primary School is the larger school, with around 235 pupils to Southbank International School - Hampstead Campus's 165. Both keep typical class sizes around 16.
ICS London operates on two central London campuses: the Early Years & Primary Campus at 7B Wyndham Place, London W1H 1PN, and the Secondary & Diploma Campus at 21 Star Street, London W2 1QB. The campuses are between Hyde Park and The Regent's Park, a short walk apart and minutes from the West End, with easy transport connections.
Location
—
Stages
Stages
Early Years; Primary Years (PYP); Middle Years (MYP); iGCSE Programme; Diploma Years (DP).
Stages
—
School type
School type
Private co-educational day school.
School type
—
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
The student body includes more than 50 nationalities.
Pupil nationality mix
—
Additional learning support
Additional learning support
One-to-one and/or small-group provision for English as an Additional Language (EAL) and for learners with learning differences.
Additional learning support
—
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
United Kingdom
Country affiliation
—
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
—
Religious affiliation
—
School day structure
School day structure
Typical day begins with a warm morning welcome, followed by timetable-based learning for Early Years, Primary, MYP and Diploma, with breaks and lunch, dedicated homework time and a range of extracurricular activities.
School day structure
—
Bus service details
Bus service details
Door-to-door bus service is available to collect students from home in the morning and deliver them to the front door at the end of the school day.
Bus service details
—
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Tuition fees (Academic Year 2025–26)
- Nursery – Reception (age 3–4): GBP 7,630 per term; GBP 22,890 per annum. - Years 1–4 (age 5–8): GBP 9,490 per term; GBP 28,470 per annum. - Years 5–6 (age 9–10): GBP 9,620 per term; GBP 28,860 per annum. - Years 7–11 (MYP / iGCSE, age 11–15): GBP 10,950 per term; GBP 32,850 per annum. - Years 12–13 (Diploma Programme, age 16–19): GBP 11,400 per term; GBP 34,200 per annum.
Application and new-student (one-off / first year) fees
- Registration fee (non-refundable, non-transferable): GBP 250. - Refundable deposit: GBP 1,500 (held by the school until the student leaves and refunded subject to the school's refund conditions). - School Development Fee (first-year fee): GBP 1,880. Additional School Development Fees may apply in subsequent years as set out on the fees list.
Examination fees
- iGCSE examination charge (one-off; subject to variation by subjects taken): GBP 700 (indicative). - IB Diploma (DP2) examination charge (one-off; subject to change; added to Summer invoice): GBP 800 (indicative).
Optional academic and additional costs (per term / per annum where shown)
- Intensive EAL support: GBP 2,950 per term; GBP 8,850 per annum. - Intermediate EAL support: GBP 1,600 per term; GBP 4,800 per annum. - Additional language tuition: GBP 1,550 per term; GBP 4,650 per annum. - Online Diploma course annual fee (conditions apply): GBP 1,000. - Lunch is included within the tuition fees.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- An Admissions Invoice is issued with the offer and must be paid to accept the place. The Admissions Invoice is payable within 14 days of the invoice date. The Admissions Invoice includes tuition, the refundable deposit, the School Development Fee and other relevant charges. - Fees for each term are due and payable as cleared funds before the commencement of the School Term to which they relate, unless a separate deferment agreement is in place. If an invoice item is under query, the balance of the invoice must still be paid. - Students enrolling under the Child Student visa sponsorship regime are required to pay a full year's tuition fees in advance and cannot enrol for less than one full academic year. - Instalment arrangements or fees-in-advance schemes are possible only by separate agreement with the school. - Late payment may incur simple interest charged daily at up to 8% per annum above the Bank of England base rate; the school may take recovery action for unpaid fees, and may exclude a student on short notice for overdue fees.
Boarding fees
- Boarding is not applicable. ICS London operates as a co-educational day school for ages 3–19, so there are no boarding fees.
Other costs (uniform, transport, extras)
- A school uniform is required for Primary and Secondary students; Diploma (IB Years) students follow a smart-casual dress code and do not wear the standard uniform. School ties are optional and are available for purchase. Uniform items are ordered through the school's uniform supplier. Costs for individual uniform items are charged separately by the supplier. - School transport (bus service) and related charges are additional where used; details and routes are published by the school and transport charges are separate from tuition. - Miscellaneous extras that may be charged include curriculum-related trips, examination fees, special education support fees (where lawfully charged), photographs, damage to school property, and other items requested by parents. These items are listed under the school's definition of fees and may be invoiced in addition to tuition.
Refund information
- Except where there is a legal liability or the school's terms provide otherwise, fees will not be refunded, reduced or waived for absence through illness, shortened terms, temporary school closures (including adverse weather or operation through remote learning), early release before the normal end of term, or for other routine events. Refunds or waivers are only made in exceptional circumstances at the Head's discretion. - The refundable deposit is returned only where the refund is requested in writing to the finance team within one month of the last day of the term in which the student completed their studies, or where the required notice of withdrawal has been given and other conditions in the terms are met. The school may retain the deposit where conditions are not met. - If a Child Student visa application or visa renewal is refused by UKVI, the school will initiate the refund process for fees paid in advance on receipt of the official visa rejection.
Fee payment options and practical notes on payment
- Fees must be paid as cleared funds before the start of the relevant term. The school reserves the right to refuse payment if it is not satisfied as to the identity of the payer or the source of funds. Payments from third parties may be accepted but do not release parents from liability unless a formal release has been given. The school may accept payments via third-party credit providers subject to indemnity and separate agreement. Specific payment channels (for example bank transfer, third-party card provider arrangements, or other methods) are handled through the school's finance team and the Admissions/Finance contact on invoices.
Summary
- Tuition and one-off/new-student fees for Academic Year 2025–26 are stated above by year group and per term/per annum. Additional/optional academic services, examination charges, deposit and development fees are listed above. Fees must be paid as cleared funds before each term; the Admissions Invoice is due within 14 days; late payment attracts interest and the school has specific exclusion and recovery rights. The school is a day school (no boarding fees) and a school uniform is required for most year groups, purchased separately through the supplier.
Fee details
—
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
—
Boarding arrangements
—
Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
A school uniform is worn by students in both the Primary and Secondary School. Diploma Years do not wear a uniform; they follow a smart casual dress code. The uniform includes House t-shirts and the House programme runs across the school from September; school ties are optional and can be purchased through the school.
Uniform requirement
—
Food options
Food options
Healthy, well-balanced hot school meals are available each day in the Dining Room, with halal and vegetarian options always available, or students may bring a healthy packed lunch from home. Lunch is included within the tuition fees.
Food options
—
House system
House system
House t-shirts are part of the uniform. The House programme runs across the school from September.
House system
—
Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
ICS London is part of Globeducate, a network of 65+ premium international schools. Globeducate is a leading international K12 education group with schools across 11 countries.
Governance and ownership
—
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
The school delivers a bespoke curriculum rooted in the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, culminating in the IB Diploma. It serves ages 3 to 18, with Early Years, Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), iGCSE and Diploma Years (DP). On the secondary side, the curriculum is structured into MYP, iGCSE and DP. Language provision includes courses in French, Spanish and Mandarin alongside English. 100% of pupils study at least one additional language at IGCSE and DP levels. The IB Learner Profile and Approaches to Learning are integrated across the school.
Curriculum details
—
Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
The school has a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
Student teacher ratio
—
Exam results
Exam results
Average IB Diploma Programme score: 33.12 points over the last five years, significantly higher than the 24-point pass mark. The school is ranked in the top 20% of UK schools.
Exam results
—
Higher education progression
Higher education progression
Average IB Diploma Programme score is 33.12 points; 40% of university destinations are ranked among the Top 100 Universities in the world (Times Higher Education, 2021).
Higher education progression
—
Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
—
Gifted and talented
—
Academic calendar
Academic calendar
—
Academic calendar
—
Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
Social & emotional learning
ICS London follows a holistic approach to education, with student wellbeing informing all aspects of school life. The aim is to develop well‑rounded, compassionate community‑builders who contribute positively to the school. A PSHRE (Personal, Social, Health and Relationships Education) programme supports students' personal and social development. The programme is complemented by stimulation, academic and physical activities designed to support growth across mind and body. Safeguarding is treated as the highest priority by all staff, with annual safeguarding training and a designated Whole School Safeguarding Lead.
Social & emotional learning
—
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
ICS London can consider prospective students with physical and/or mental needs, with each application evaluated on an individual basis. The school notes that access to classrooms is via stairs and there is no lift, which may affect wheelchair users. If a special educational need or disability becomes apparent after admission, parents are consulted about reasonable adjustments to support the student. If requirements go beyond what can reasonably be provided, Student Support fees may be charged. Additional information is provided in the ICS London Student Support policy.
Special educational needs (SEN)
—
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
Language Bridges at ICS London offers courses in French, Spanish and Mandarin alongside English proficiency training. English is the main language of instruction. In the Early Years, children as young as three begin language learning, with two hours of language instruction each week; the Primary Years Programme continues this provision. In the Middle Years, language courses are bespoke in French, Spanish or Mandarin with native-speaking teachers and small class sizes; at IGCSE all students study at least one of these languages. International Student Support welcomes multilingual students; if needed, the school provides EAL support and may offer early IGCSE options; EAL assessments determine eligibility, and EAL fees may apply.
English as an additional language
—
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
Wellbeing is central to ICS London's philosophy; the school uses a holistic approach to education, and wellbeing informs all aspects of school life. The timetable includes mental stimulation, physical education and support services to help students thrive. Safeguarding policies are in place to support students throughout their school experience, including meeting the needs of students with medical conditions. The Whole School Safeguarding Incorporating Child Protection policy underpins safeguarding practices and fulfills legal duties. The school community is described as a close, caring environment where staff and students are encouraged to be happy and confident to take on new challenges.
Mental wellbeing
—
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is the action to promote the welfare of children and protect them from harm or maltreatment, including physical and mental health and general wellbeing; online safety and content are also covered. A robust PSHRE programme, online monitoring of networks and devices, and workshops support holistic development. Safeguarding is treated as the highest priority; staff receive annual safeguarding training, and a Whole School Safeguarding Lead oversees the programme. In an emergency where a child is at immediate risk, call 999. The safeguarding team and school locations are listed for contact and policy access.
Safeguarding
—
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
—
Safeguarding policy
—
Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
ICS London operates two campuses: Wyndham Place for Early Years and Primary, and Star Street for Secondary and Diploma. The Primary site features seven classrooms, three large group teaching rooms and specialist art and music spaces, with a hall that doubles as a dining and performance area and a library in the hall plus a library in every classroom. The Primary site uses the Seymour Centre for sports and swimming, and outdoor spaces at Regent's Park Playground and Paddington Street Gardens for activity. The Secondary site has 16 classrooms, a science lab, a multi-purpose hall and an extensive library; there are dedicated student support spaces and a bring-your-own-device policy. Both campuses are connected to Globeducate and participate in international events and networks.
Facilities overview
—
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
Primary students use the Seymour Centre for sports and swimming, and outdoor spaces at Regent's Park Playground and Paddington Street Gardens. The Primary site supports PE and sport through on-site facilities and nearby spaces. The Secondary site makes regular use of Paddington Recreation Ground and the Little Venice Sports Centre for PE and sports activities. Both campuses benefit from access to city-centre facilities for a range of outdoor and indoor sports.
Sports facilities
—
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
Primary School facilities include seven classrooms, three larger group teaching rooms, and dedicated spaces for art and music; the hall doubles as a dining area and performances space, and there is a central library in the hall plus a library in every classroom. The Secondary School site features 16 classrooms, a well-appointed science laboratory, a multi-purpose hall for performances and exhibitions, and an extensive library. There are student support and counselling rooms at the Secondary site, and students are invited to bring in their own laptops to assist their learning in class.
Academic facilities
—
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
ICS London offers a broad extracurricular programme beyond the classroom. Student Leadership includes a Student Council and Model United Nations. Sporting activities include Primary and Secondary Football clubs and table tennis with inter-house competitions. Conferences and Events include art and design projects, debating, visits to cultural venues, and other educational trips. Charity activities are organized by students, including a charity dog walk, Wear it Pink day and Christmas hampers; Performing Arts are delivered through an instrumental programme with Arts International, and Globeducate events provide opportunities for international participation.
Extra curricular facilities
—
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
ICS opened in Marylebone, central London, in 1979, founded by the Toettcher family to serve children of diplomats and global business people. Initially an English-language school, it grew into a full academic program based on the English national curriculum. In 2006 ICS introduced the International Baccalaureate and expanded to the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme. In 2017 ICS joined the global NACE Schools group, and in 2019 NACE became Globeducate, a network of 60+ premium international schools. In 2020 the ICS London brand expanded across Europe as part of Globeducate, with campuses in Paris, Milan, Rome and Nice, and ICS London was recognised as a leading IB school within the group.
History
—
Community
Community
The ICS London mission is to inspire each student to discover their strengths within a community of future leaders, and the vision is to be a community of compassionate and inspired world citizens. The school emphasizes the values of Respect, Integrity, Resilience and Courage to guide student conduct and interaction within its global learning community. The school also states that it aims to provide a global context for learning where all voices are heard. ICS London actively engages the community in wellbeing and cultural initiatives, including the Diana Award Wellbeing Badge, the Globeducate Debate, and International Community Day activities.
Community
—
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
—
Parent teacher association
—
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
Student Council enables students to influence school life, celebrations and competitions. The Model United Nations group builds a global perspective. Conferences and events include debates and design projects.
Academic & intellectual
—
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
An instrumental programme runs for years 3–9, with termly recitals. Arts International delivers a performing arts programme for primary and Years 7–9, including acting and singing.
Arts & creative
—
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
The school hosts visits to the Institut Francais and participates in Globeducate events, promoting cross-cultural exchange. Globeducate events foster cross-cultural collaboration across the network.
Cultural & language
—
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Primary and Secondary Football clubs are popular and actively recruit. Table tennis features inter-house competitions and a daily challenge league. Some students compete at high levels while balancing academics.
Social & hobbies
—
Community & service
Community & service
Volunteering and giving are encouraged, including a charity dog walk, Wear It Pink day and Christmas hampers. The Student Council selects the charities and plans the events.
Community & service
—
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
The Student Council provides leadership in decisions affecting school life and celebrations. The Model United Nations group develops leadership and teamwork. Globeducate events offer leadership experiences through collaboration.
Leadership & professional
—
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Sporting activities, including football and table tennis, support fitness and teamwork. The school balances sport with academics and supports students who compete at high levels for their country where applicable.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
—
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
English is the language of instruction and English language development is integrated across the curriculum; courses in French, Spanish and Mandarin are offered as additional languages. In Early Years, language learning begins; Primary Years include two hours of language instruction per week. In Middle Years, students take a bespoke language course in French, Spanish or Mandarin with native-speaking teachers; at IGCSE all students continue at least one of these languages; Language Acquisition options include Spanish, Mandarin or French at MYP/IGCSE; the school runs a Mother Tongue Programme (school-supported self-taught Language A) for Diploma level with tutors recruited by the school and annual reassessment. 100% of pupils study at least one additional language at IGCSE and DP levels; language clubs and International Student Support are provided.
Language provision
—
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
English is the language of instruction; there is no formal bilingual programme. English is used across the IB curriculum. Students study additional languages—French, Spanish and Mandarin—and a Mother Tongue Programme is available for students wishing to develop their home language up to Diploma level.
Bilingual teaching
—
Immersion programs
Immersion programs
—
Immersion programs
—
Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
ISC Telegraph ranking mention (2019) for A-level equivalent results; not a contemporary award—contextual note included in source.
Awards
—
Accreditations
Accreditations
IB World School; International Baccalaureate Organization recognises ICS London as an IB World School; Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) fully compliant; Independent Schools Association (ISA) member; IBSCA member.
Accreditations
—
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1. First Contact: Families are encouraged to contact the Admissions team with questions about the school and to arrange a campus tour. The dedicated Admissions team can be reached by email or phone to organise a personalised visit. Book a Visit is available to arrange this.
2. Submit an application via OpenApply: The application takes around 15 minutes to complete. Have the following information at hand: applicant's full personal information (name, date of birth, passport number and photo); parent or guardian personal information (name and contact details); proposed start date and visa information. If applying for multiple students, each applicant must submit an individual application.
3. The Admissions team makes contact: The Admissions team will contact applicants' parents/guardians directly to discuss the application. This is a good time to ask questions about the school or the admissions process.
4. Letter of Offer: Once Admissions has reviewed all information, a place may be offered. To accept the offer, complete and return the online acceptance forms.
