The UCS Junior Branch is a leading prep school in Hampstead which educates boys aged 7-11, valuing acts of kindness and self confidence alongside an enriched and inspiring curriculum.
“With the Senior School situated only a short walk away, our Junior Branch pupils have the opportunity to access the many impressive facilities available at Frognal. Our hope is that every pupil will eventually proceed to the Senior School, and the strong connections within the UCS Foundation help to ensure that this is a seamless transition.”
Lewis HaywardHeadmaster
“Leaders’ aspiration for pupils’ learning has led them to develop an inclusive, wide ranging and
ambitious curriculum. It aims to instil in pupils a love of learning. Leaders encourage pupils to take a
lead in their own learning. The curriculum provides many opportunities for pupils,
from a young age, to choose their learning pathways through the enrichment programme as well as
in timetabled lessons.”
Independent Schools InspectorateISI Inspection Report, November 2024
“I think school is a fun place because there is so much to do here that I never get bored. I look forward to coming to school every day to see my friends, play and have lessons. I like Maths because I love to challenge myself and enjoy doing puzzles like arithmagons. ”
Enitan AjeigbeJunior Branch pupil, Year 4
“Our boy has always been a good natured and easy child. However, he started the school very anxious and shy. He is now leaving as a confident, independent and talented boy. We could not have wished for a better school to prepare him for Senior School.”
“When I first came to the Junior Branch peer mentors helped me feel welcome in the school. They were boys in Year 6 were very kind to me. A huge part of UCS is Music and Drama and we have a concert in the Great Hall every year. The Year 6 play is breathtaking,”
Conrad SinkerJunior Branch pupil, Year 6
“When I joined, I was drawn by how warm and welcoming the school is and by the happiness of the boys. Their passion for learning is testament to the high-quality teaching and to the boys themselves who thrive in this environment. The clubs, pastoral care and teaching are unparalleled.”
Pooja GaglaniAssistant Head (Administration)
“The co-curricular clubs and activities range from football to chess to dance! I personally recommend the Mad Science Club as it teaches you so many interesting things! The classroom lessons are also great as you are taught by many brilliant teachers. ”
Alex MacadamJunior Branch pupil, Year 5
The Junior Branch in Numbers
77 clubs
as part of extra-curricular provision
The Junior Branch offers an extensive range of extra-curricular activities – the 77 clubs deliver an exceptional level of choice, meaning something for everyone.
96% of boys
playing a musical instrument
That so many of our 255 pupils play a musical instrument attests to our significant Music output, with opportunities to either try instruments for fun or progress through examinations.
75 metres
from nearest Underground station
We are situated a mere 75 metres from Hampstead Tube station, which chimes with our campaign for sustainable travel – the JB being a Camden-recognised Gold STAR school.
5 learning values
integral to a Junior Branch education
As a school, we recognise five key skills that our pupils will need in their development: resilience, risk-taking, creativity, independence and collaboration.
7 residential trips
on offer each year
We present pupils with a wealth of educational experiences, including residential trips as well as Art exhibitions, Masterchef, and participation in Music performances and Drama productions.
4 Modern Languages
as part of pupils' learning journey
French and Spanish are taught as part of the mainstream curriculum while additional clubs are provided for German and Mandarin.
