ACS International School Hillingdon vs ICS London International School - Primary School

	A ACS International School Hillingdon London, United Kingdom	I ICS London International School - Primary School London, United Kingdom
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year £12,760 - 30,170	Fees / year £22,890 - 28,860
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 11 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme), Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP)
Pupils	Pupils 551	Pupils 235
Typical class size	Typical class size 16	Typical class size 16
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1978	Opened 1979
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location ACS International School Hillingdon is located at Hillingdon Court, 108 Vine Lane, Hillingdon, UB10 0BE, England. The campus address is used for communications and directions. It is close to Junction 16 of the M25 for transport access.	Location 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.
Stages	Stages Lower School (ages 3-10) and Upper School (ages 10-18).	Stages Early Years; Primary Years (PYP); Middle Years (MYP); iGCSE Programme; Diploma Years (DP).
School type	School type Co-educational day school.	School type Private co-educational day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix The student body includes more than 50 nationalities.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support English as an Additional Language (EAL) is provided.	Additional learning support One-to-one and/or small-group provision for English as an Additional Language (EAL) and for learners with learning differences.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation England	Country affiliation United Kingdom
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure Lower School follows a structured timetable with eight periods per day, including a lunch period and outdoor recess.	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.
Bus service details	Bus service details Extensive busing with shuttle stops and door-to-door services available.	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.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and one‑off fees - Application fee: £330 (inc. VAT); non‑refundable and payable with each application. - Enrolment deposit: £1,500; refundable and payable after an offer is accepted to reserve a place. The deposit is retained for the duration of enrolment and refunded within three months of contract termination, net of any outstanding liabilities (including notice‑period liabilities and supplementary charges). - One‑off campus/development fee: £1,680 (inc. VAT); a once‑only, non‑refundable charge applied in the first year of enrolment for Grades K–12 and included on the first tuition invoice. Tuition fees (2025–2026) — per semester and annual Tuition fees are charged per semester (two semesters per academic year). Fees below include VAT. - Pre‑K (Ages 4–5): £7,350 per semester — Annual £14,700. - Kindergarten (Ages 5–6): £12,360 per semester — Annual £24,720. - Grades 1–2 (Ages 6–8): £13,200 per semester — Annual £26,400. - Grades 3–4 (Ages 8–10): £13,230 per semester — Annual £26,460. - Grades 5–6 (Ages 10–12): £15,570 per semester — Annual £31,140. - Grades 7–8 (Ages 12–14): £15,690 per semester — Annual £31,380. - Grades 9–10 (Ages 14–16): £17,220 per semester — Annual £34,440. - Grade 11 (Ages 16–17): £17,310 per semester — Annual £34,620. (Includes university placement support costs but excludes external exam and university application fees.) - Grade 12 (Ages 17–18): £17,400 per semester — Annual £34,800. (Includes university placement support costs but excludes external exam and university application fees.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Academic year structure: two semesters (August–January; January–June). Tuition is billed per semester. - Invoicing for 2025–2026: 1st semester invoice issue date 4 June 2025 — due 18 June 2025; 2nd semester invoice issue date 5 November 2025 — due 19 November 2025. Invoices are issued twice per year and handled by the School Fees Office. - Any bank charges incurred when making payments are charged back to the student's fees account and must be cleared by further payment. Instalment (monthly) plans are available for parents paying fees themselves; details are arranged through the School Fees Office. Busing fees (2025–2026) Door‑to‑door (exempt/zero rated for VAT): - Zone 1: Single £1,220 per semester — Annual £2,440. Return £1,890 per semester — Annual £3,780. - Zone 2: Single £1,340 per semester — Annual £2,680. Return £2,070 per semester — Annual £4,140. - Zone 3: Single £1,420 per semester — Annual £2,840. Return £2,200 per semester — Annual £4,400. Shuttle service (exempt/zero rated for VAT): - Zone 1: Single £560 per semester — Annual £1,120. Return £850 per semester — Annual £1,700. - Zone 2: Single £710 per semester — Annual £1,420. Return £1,070 per semester — Annual £2,140. - Zone 3: Single £760 per semester — Annual £1,520. Return £1,180 per semester — Annual £2,360. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable: ACS Hillingdon operates as a day school and does not charge boarding fees. Other costs and routine additional charges - Exams: External exam charges are additional. Typical expected costs are around £700 for the full IB Diploma, around £200 for the IBCP, and AP standard fees £125 per exam. (Examination boards may change fees.) - University applications: US application fees typically range $50–$150 per application; UCAS charge £27.50 (up to 5 choices). - SEN services: Support for moderate SEN is charged at £4,500 per year (£2,250 per semester). Services for mild SEN are included in standard tuition at no additional cost. A formal assessment determines the service level after admission. Spaces for moderate SEN support are limited. - IT and device charges: Accidental damage is generally covered; lost or misplaced iPads incur a charge up to £350. Annual IT service fee £60 (inc. VAT) applies for Grades 9–12. Deliberate damage or misuse incurs repair/replacement costs. - Textbooks: A set of textbooks is loaned; charges apply for lost or damaged textbooks/library books beyond fair wear and tear. - Trips and co‑curricular activities: Some trips, extracurricular activities and co‑curricular options incur additional charges; some activities are included in tuition while others are charged separately. Refund information - Enrolment deposit refund: The enrolment deposit (£1,500) is refundable and will be returned within three months of termination of the contract, after deduction of any outstanding fees or liabilities. Fee payment options and bank details - Accepted payment methods: debit and credit cards, sterling (GBP) cheque drawn on a UK bank account, and direct electronic payments (BACS/wire transfer). A monthly instalment option is available for parents paying fees themselves. - UK bank details for sterling payments (as provided for school fees): NatWest Bank Plc — Account name: ACS International Schools Ltd — Account number: 34337199 — Sort code: 60‑06‑03 — SWIFT: NWBKGB2L — IBAN: GB62 NWBK 6006 0334 3371 99. - US bank details for USD payments (as provided for school fees): Citizens Bank, 1 Citizens Drive, Riverside, RI 02915 — Account name: ACS International Schools Ltd — Account number: 1300032801 — ABA (Domestic USA Wire) 011500120 — SWIFT CTZIUS33 — ACH ABA 211070175. Please quote the student number when making a direct payment. Any bank charges incurred will be debited to the student's fees account. Payment in US Dollars may be arranged following an exchange‑rate confirmation from the School Fees Office. Contact points for fees - Application & deposit queries: ACS Hillingdon Admissions. For tuition, transport and development fees: The School Fees Office (contact details provided with invoices and officially issued fee documents).	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.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Dress Code; no school uniform is worn; all students follow a dress code. From Grade 5 upwards, students wear a PE uniform for physical education.	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.
Food options	Food options In-house catering department serves fresh, nutritious, and seasonal meals in a modern dining hall, using locally sourced ingredients and adhering to School Food Trust guidelines. Students may bring their own packed lunch.	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.
House system	House system —	House system House t-shirts are part of the uniform. The House programme runs across the school from September.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership ACS Hillingdon is part of the ACS International Schools group, a registered UK charity since 2018, with ACS as its charitable parent organization.	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.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details An enquiry-based, international curriculum that blends international standards across the school. Lower School (Pre-K to Grade 4) provides core and specialist subjects taught by dedicated teachers, with one full-time teacher per class and a teaching assistant in Pre-K and Kindergarten; technology is integrated with one-to-one iPads; Forest School and Outdoor Learning are part of learning. The curriculum follows international anchors, including UK Birth to Five Matters and US Common Core, and leads to International Baccalaureate Diploma, US High School Diploma, and US College Board Advanced Placement examinations. Upper School follows a forward-looking, international curriculum preparing students for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), IB Career-related Programme (IBCP), Advanced Placement (AP), and the High School Diploma, with the ACS Global Programme and language options in French or Spanish; Grades 11-12 offer IBDP, IBCP, and AP.	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.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio Lower School classes have one full-time teacher per class; Pre-K and Kindergarten have a full-time teaching assistant.	Student teacher ratio The school has a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
Exam results	Exam results In 2025, IBDP results saw 44/45 as the top score with an average of 35 and a 100% pass rate. AP results showed 91% of students gaining at least one 3+ with an average AP score of 3.7 (42 AP students).	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.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Graduates go on to leading universities in the UK and internationally, including institutions such as Imperial College London, University College London, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, New York University and Cornell University, among others.	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).
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented The Elite Performance Pathway (EPP) supports the most gifted and talented athletes with athletic development, workshops, sports psychology, lifestyle and dual career support, and TASS dual career support.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Wellbeing is integral to ACS Hillingdon, with a professional team of counsellors supporting personal, social, and emotional development through classroom, group, and individual activities. Students have access to age-appropriate counselling services, with short sessions before family involvement when needed. PSHE lessons cover Health and Wellbeing, Living in the Wider World, and Relationships. The Student Wellbeing Triangle and Wellbeing Ambassadors empower students to lead peer-support and wellbeing initiatives. Wellbeing data, including surveys, inform action plans and ACS works with external partners and the Wellbeing Hub to support families and staff.	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.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) ACS Hillingdon Upper School is inclusive and supports students with mild to medium learning needs and with exceptionalities. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging applies to students and staff across race, religion, disability, culture, sexuality and nationality. Academic programmes accommodate the needs of students with mild to medium learning needs as well as those with exceptionalities. Support plans are created for students with physical and mental health issues, and DEIB principles are embedded across the school. Inclusive education is embedded across the curriculum.	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.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The Lower School's English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme supports young learners in a welcoming environment to engage with the curriculum and make friends. Early and primary learners learn English in a supportive immersion setting, using their full linguistic repertoire. Specialist EAL Teaching provides personalised support through dedicated specialists who monitor progress. The EAL Programme in Lower School includes small group lessons, trained teachers, Home Language Enrichment (optional after school), in-class support from specialist teachers, and Universal Design for Learning informed by WIDA standards.	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.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental health is a priority at ACS Hillingdon. The Wellbeing team provides counselling services with a focus on positive mental health, confidentiality, and ethical guidelines. Counselling supports students individually and in groups and works with families and school staff to promote resilience and wellbeing. Students participate in PSHE and wellbeing activities, and the school uses wellbeing data (including the Warwick- Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scales) to drive action plans. The Wellbeing Hub offers resources for students, families, and staff.	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.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding is a priority and ACS Hillingdon aims to protect students from harm, bullying, abuse, discrimination, and harassment. Students are encouraged to talk to trusted adults and there are designated safeguarding leads, including Jean Glover for Hillingdon. The ACS Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy informs practice and can be found in School Policies. The safeguarding team includes the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and reporting routes include online reporting via CEOP; Operation Encompass participation and parent communication are in place.	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 policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to nurture students' minds and talents, including cutting-edge science labs and inspiring art studios. The mansion houses the Upper School facilities, the school reception, and senior classrooms. The Science Centre includes seven laboratories and a preparation lab with enhanced testing capabilities and flexible furniture for collaboration. A separate Digital Arts building supports the IB Career-related Programme and includes music and composition studios. Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten classrooms are in a purpose-built facility with outdoor space, while Pavilions host Lower School art and performing arts spaces with an outdoor classroom added; Lower and Middle School libraries provide quiet spaces for reading and exploration, and the dining hall serves a variety of international dishes.	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.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The 4G pitch is located at the back of the mansion and is used for football, softball, rugby, and baseball. The Sports & Activities Centre includes two modern sports halls used for basketball, volleyball, dance, PE and badminton and is home to the ACS Hillingdon Hawks varsity teams. The centre also features a fitness suite and a climbing wall. Three tennis courts lie close to the Sports Centre to support the tennis programme. ACS Hillingdon owns an additional 14 acres of football pitches, rugby fields, softball and baseball diamonds at Iver Fields nearby.	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.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The Science Centre includes seven laboratories and a preparation lab for advanced experiments with high-quality probes and flexible furniture to support collaboration. A separate Digital Arts building houses IB CP-related technology and includes music and composition studios. Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten classrooms are in a dedicated facility with direct outdoor access, and Pavilions host Lower School art and performing arts spaces. Lower and Middle School libraries provide quiet spaces for reading. The Think Tank supports coding, media and design lessons and clubs.	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.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Co-curricular activities are valued and span Lower and Upper School, providing artistic, cultural, interpersonal, intellectual, and leadership opportunities. The programme includes clubs such as fencing, assemblies and music performances, and outdoor learning through Forest School with qualified educators across the Lower School. The co-curricular programme emphasizes turning compassion into action and student-driven leadership across campus.	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.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Back in 1967 our founders opened their first school with one division and 35 students. ACS Hillingdon opened in 1978 at 108 Vine Lane, Hillingdon. The West Wing opened at the Hillingdon site, and a state-of-the-art Science Centre followed later. Today ACS operates 3 schools in Greater London, enrolling 2,400 students aged 2–18. The organisation rebranded as ACS International Schools to reflect its growing international network.	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.
Community	Community ACS Hillingdon has a warm, hospitable atmosphere with an active community that brings students, teachers, parents and alumni together. We actively promote global citizenship in an environment where everyone feels they belong and is valued. Regular events and campus visits support our Alumni & Friends community, and the school welcomes everyone to stay connected and share their story.	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.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parents' Association (PSO) is a vibrant part of school life and welcomes all parents who would like to volunteer their time and enthusiasm to keep our community fun and thriving. The PSO organises events throughout the school year, including the International Fair that celebrates customs, culture and food from different countries around the globe. The school also maintains a dedicated parent community page with information about how to get involved.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual ACS Hillingdon offers a robust international curriculum including the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP), Advanced Placement (AP), and a High School Diploma. English as an Additional Language (EAL) is available to support multilingual learners. The curriculum is enhanced by a tailored approach and a breadth of opportunities to follow individual interests and ambitions. When students leave ACS Hillingdon, they are prepared as global citizens ready for a world of possibilities.	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.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The school has a dynamic performing arts programme with annual performances in a high-tech auditorium. It provides cutting-edge facilities for digital arts and related creative disciplines. A wide range of co-curricular activities includes sport, performing arts, and clubs, offering opportunities for creative expression beyond the classroom.	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.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English as an Additional Language (EAL) is available to support learners. Home Language Enrichment is offered to help maintain heritage languages. The school maintains a thriving, inclusive community with a diverse student body. As part of the ACS International Schools group, the school collaborates with partners and communities to drive positive change.	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.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies There is a wide range of co-curricular activities, including sport, performing arts, and clubs and activities. Co-curricular options include the Global Citizen Diploma and Elite Performance Pathway. These activities complement classroom learning and foster collaboration, creativity, and personal interests.	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.
Community & service	Community & service The school is part of the ACS International Schools group with a charitable mission to advance education and drive positive change with partners and communities. This mission is reflected in a thriving, inclusive community that encourages collaboration and partnerships. Students have opportunities to engage with local and global communities through school initiatives.	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.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional University Destinations and Careers Counselling are provided to support students in planning after ACS Hillingdon. Elite Performance Pathway offers targeted opportunities for high-achieving students. The Global Citizen Diploma helps develop leadership, global awareness, and social responsibility through co-curricular experiences.	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.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing ACS Hillingdon features extensive sports facilities including a modern sports hall and a fitness suite. Wellbeing is a focus of student life, supported by the school's wellbeing resources within a thriving, inclusive community. The campus offers a broad range of extracurricular activities that contribute to physical, mental, and social 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.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Spanish is taught as a specialist subject in Lower School. Global Studies includes language-related learning. English as an Additional Language (EAL) provides ongoing language support with specialist teachers. Home Language Enrichment is available after school for many languages.	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.
Bilingual teaching	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.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Lower School English language learners are supported in an immersion setting in the Early Years, using a translanguaging approach. Home Language Enrichment for many global languages is offered after school.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards ISC Telegraph ranking mention (2019) for A-level equivalent results; not a contemporary award—contextual note included in source.
Accreditations	Accreditations Apple Distinguished School status.	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.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Admissions Process comprises five steps: Enquiry, Application, Review, Admission, Welcome. Enquiry: Visit for Open Day or Personal Tour to explore campus, meet academic staff, and discuss admissions. Application: Apply year-round if the child has the right to study in the UK prior to starting school; a non-refundable application fee is paid online. Review: The admissions committee assesses the online application and may request additional documents; the outcome is communicated as soon as possible. Admission: If successful, a place is offered; a non-refundable enrolment deposit is required and is set against the second semester tuition. Welcome: The team provides information on cafeteria, transport, school platforms, subject selection, and visa compliance prior to the first day to ensure a smooth start. Admissions chances vary by grade; if the grade is at capacity, the child is waitlisted and you will be contacted immediately to complete the remaining steps. Rolling admissions are in place, so applications are accepted year-round and students may start at any point in the academic year (subject to availability). The online application uses a holistic approach, reviewing previous school records, references, student questionnaire answers, and standardised test scores, and may require Educational Psychologist reports or EAL tests where relevant.	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.
Scholarships	Scholarships Bursaries are offered to students with exceptional personal and academic potential who would benefit from an ACS education but cannot meet full school fees; bursaries are means-tested and require UK residency with the right to remain. The bursary programme is suspended for the 2026/2027 academic year; details of the 2027/2028 schedule will be published in 2026. Bursary awards can cover up to 100% of tuition and may include additional costs; awards are reviewed annually.	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist If admission is offered but the grade is at capacity, the child is waitlisted, and when a place becomes available you will be contacted immediately to complete the remaining admission steps.	Waitlist —
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