UCS Hampstead

University College School was founded in 1830 to promote principles of liberal scholarship. That remains our first and overriding aim. Intellectual curiosity, breadth of study and independence of mind combine to achieve academic excellence; they are not subordinate to it. Initially located in Gower Street, as part of University College London, the School was revolutionary in its approach to education, having as a fundamental principle that religion, in any form, should neither be an entry requirement nor a taught subject, believing rather that faith is a matter for the family and the individual – a tradition that continues today.  The UCS Foundation, now independent of the University, comprises three schools: the Senior School (960 pupils: 11-18), the Junior Branch (250 pupils:  7-11) and the Pre-Prep (130 pupils: 3-7).

The Chair of Council, Stephen Warshaw, is due to stand down in the first half of 2026, and UCS is seeking to appoint an individual of the highest calibre to work with Stephen as Vice Chair from early 2025, with a view to succeeding him as Chair.  This is a new position.  Stephen’s replacement as Chair will be elected by Council, so the succession cannot be predicted with certainty – none the less, it is envisaged that the Vice Chair would at minimum be a strong candidate to replace Stephen in leading the governance of the school.  The role is non-executive but requires engaged oversight of the strategic development and financial sustainability of the school, and the skills to both support and challenge the Senior Leadership Team.

This is both an exciting and challenging time to be joining the UCS community.  2030 is the 200th anniversary of the foundation of the school, and UCS is embarking on an ambitious programme of development in the lead-up to the bi-centenary, aimed at improving bursary provision for families less able to afford the fees and at building modern, expanded facilities for pupil well-being and the performing arts.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to UCS Hampstead on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference LBSZA. Alternatively email Belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on Wednesday 11^th December.