THE 2024
On behalf of the entire UCS community, I extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of our supporters.
Mark Beard, Headmaster
OUR HEADMASTER A WORD FROM
Dear Donors, Friends, Supporters, Parents, and Old Gowers,
I am thrilled to present to you the latest edition of our annual Impact Report, aptly renamed ‘The 2024 Trailblazers’, in honour of those pupils who have blazed their own paths forward this year, and the supporters who enabled them to do so. I am truly grateful for the support we have received during the last 12 months.
One of the cornerstones of our mission is to provide an inclusive and diverse learning environment. This year, an ever-growing number of donors have enabled us to offer more bursaries, opening our doors to talented pupils from all backgrounds. This not only greatly enriches our school community but is empowering these bright young minds to achieve their fullest potential, regardless of their financial circumstances. Your support has been instrumental in achieving this and I am exceptionally grateful to all those who have supported the Bursary Award programme this year – thank you.
UCS prides itself on looking beyond the classroom; we believe that education extends beyond academic achievement. The wellbeing and personal growth of our pupils are paramount.
Recent investments in our pastoral care programmes, mental health resources, and co-curricular activities are enabling our pupils to better understand themselves and one another, enhancing their life skills and providing them with a safe space to reflect on their experiences.
These initiatives provide a balanced education that supports the emotional and social development of our pupils, equipping them with resilience and kindness. As we aim to further improve our offering, your support will continue to be crucial to our success. I hope you enjoy reading more about what we can offer, and where we hope to improve, on pages 22-24.
On behalf of the entire UCS community, I extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of our supporters. The generosity of our community enables us to reach more pupils, enhance
our performing arts offerings, and future-proof our wellbeing provision.
In the pages that follow, you will read about the profound impact philanthropic support is having on our school. I hope you agree that this report showcases some of the very best of UCS, made possible by the kindness and generosity of our community.
Thank you for your continued support, dedication, and belief in our mission.
With gratitude,
Mark Beard, Headmaster
THANK
2023 – 2024 OUR DONORS
Mohammed Abdoella
Dinara Akhtyamova
Kenneth Allen
Haider Alsabty
Morita Asako
Richard Ayling
Ronnie Barber
Dominic Casserley
Vivienne Chapman
Chi Cheung
Joe Cohen
Alan Davies
David James Dunstan
Chris Elston
Ron Finlay
Hugo John Fletcher
Harvey Freeman
Peter Gillett
Reena Gogna
Geoffrey Greenhough
Sean Hackett
John Benjie Hall
John Gordon Hewett
Geoff Hunt
Catherine Humphreys
Alexandra Joffe
Neil Kelly
Thanh Thi Kent
Bernard Kirk
Paul Simon Krendel
Edward Landau
John Lucas
Dominic Mathon
Michael Mitzman
Chris Mouskos
Rupert Oliver
Adrian Graham
Bolam Paterson
Valeria Pensabene
Edd Pickering
Owrang Rahmani
Jeremy Rayner
Kalind Sargent
Ed Silva
Julian Philip Sondheimer
Eilish Sorohan
David Michael Stoll
Suzanna Temple-Morris
Mike Williams
Robin James Wilson
Shazia & Ali Ahmed
Monica & Timothy Babich
Jonathan Blair & Natalie Bab
Caspar Berensden & Celia Munroz
Simon & Margaret Broadbent
Angela & Alex Chesterman
Marc & Miri Davis
Elana & Eden Dwek
Morag Peberdy & Angus Evers
Sachin & Priyanka Goel
Caroline & Stephen Hill
Adam & Katie Hirschovits
Dan & Georgina Hirschovits
Darko & Petra Horvat
Verdi & Maria Israelyan
Lisa & Neil Jenkins
Ben & Tina Lewis
Dirk Lievens & Thea Chiarini-Lievens
Jessica & Tarun Mathur
Tom & Barbara O’Shea
Richard Meade & Sarah Payne
Markus & Angela Pishiris
Melody & Mark Salem
Viviane & Scott Schwager
Ben & Louise Shaw
Cat & Patrick Thomas
Tracey & Jonathan Turner
Eldar & Raluca Tuvey
Alon & Karen Zakaim
Edward & Dee Ziff
The Colman Family
The Beard Family
The Donner Family
The Gallagher Family
The Kovacs Family
The Ho-Asjoe Family
The Marchand Family
The Moriarty Family
The Travis Family
The Volpi Family
The Wolfson Family
The Zumwinkel Family
The CVC Foundation
The Rose Foundation
The Old Gowers’ Association
The Parents Guild (Senior School)
The Parents Guild (Junior School)
The Charity Trust
ISAM
Our thanks to all our supporters, including those who have chosen to remain anonymous.
FUNDING DONATED 2023–24:
£1.19M
NUMBER OF GIFTS:
589
NUMBER OF DONORS:
175
TOMORROW’S TRAILBLAZERS
APPEAL AVERAGE GIFT SIZE:
£550
YOUR SUPPORT THANK YOU FOR
WITHOUT LIMITS FOR A FUTURE
As we reflect on the past year, we are delighted to share the exciting progress of Tomorrow’s Trailblazers – an ambitious campaign dedicated to enhancing our school.
Launched last year, this initiative aims to build a brighter future for more young people by increasing bursary places, improving facilities with a new Wellbeing Centre and Lower School Hub, and upgrading our performance spaces with state-of-the-art drama and music facilities, including a new auditorium.
The reception to Tomorrow’s Trailblazers has been overwhelmingly positive. From the raucous cheering of pupils in the announcement assembly and the packed launch event in the Lund Gallery and Theatre to the inspiring stories shared by pupil ambassadors about their experiences in art, music, and as Bursary Award Holders, the UCS community has
shown immense commitment and passion for this exciting new phase in our school’s journey. We hope you enjoy reading some of these stories in the pages that follow.
GIVING DAY 2025
Looking ahead, we are excited to announce our first ever Giving Day, scheduled for Tuesday 1 July 2025. This special day will be dedicated to celebrating our community’s generosity and raising funds to support the Bursary Award programme. It will be a fantastic opportunity for pupils, parents, Old Gowers, and community members to come together, participate in competitions and activities, and contribute to the future of UCS.
GET INVOLVED
Throughout the next academic year, we will continue to provide numerous opportunities for you to get involved with the campaign. Community fundraising efforts will play a vital role in our success, and we are eager to see the creative and collaborative ways our community will support Tomorrow’s Trailblazers.
Together, we can create a diverse, inclusive, and inspiring environment for the pupils of tomorrow.
Together, we can help more pupils look forward to a bright and promising future.
Mark Beard, Headmaster.
To find out how your support can create a future without limits, visit ucs.org.uk/ support-us/tomorrows-trailblazers
JOURNEY A TRANSFORMATIVE
Meet Ally*, a driven and ambitious sixth form student whose life was transformed by the bursary she received to attend UCS in 2022. Her story is a testament to the power of bursaries and the generous donors who make them possible. Thank you for enabling young people to achieve more.
ONCE IN A LIFETIME
“Ecstatic. That was the word that came to mind when I first heard that I had received a bursary to attend UCS. The application process was lengthy and different from applying to state schools. From the moment I received the email informing me I had passed the entrance exam, I was overwhelmed with pride. The hard work I put in throughout Years 10 and 11 paid off, making me a competitive candidate for such a prestigious school. Getting an offer from UCS, a school I could never have imagined attending, made me realise that the life I want is
within reach; I just need to dare to stretch out and grasp it.
Being thrown into a completely new culture was an eye-opening experience. The differences between my classmates and me were not just financial but also cultural and in mindset. Initially, it was a massive culture shock. At my old school, everyone seemed to be in the same situation, sharing similar backgrounds and perspectives.
At UCS, I encountered a diverse range of lives and ways of thinking, providing an insight into a world I hadn’t realised existed. This pleasant surprise taught me to embrace
and learn from different experiences, broadening my perspective on life. My advice to anyone in a similar position is to be true to yourself and not hide behind expectations. Embracing your differences is an opportunity for growth and developing a greater understanding of the world.”
It has been life-changing. Access to this amazing school, thanks to the Bursary Award, has been an incredible experience.
BROADENING OPPORTUNITIES
“The people and facilities at UCS are extraordinary. The school is home to incredibly kind and open-minded individuals who always manage to bring a smile to my face and put my mind at ease. UCS offers a staggering array of opportunities. From horse-riding and bouldering to rowing, the games options alone are mind-blowing. The art and science departments are resource-rich, with the latter providing amazing experiments that bring theoretical models to life through practicals and trips. The facilities at UCS enhance the learning experience, making it unique and engaging. I just wouldn’t
THE POWER OF BURSARIES
Bursaries at UCS are more than financial assistance; they enable talented young people like Ally to reach their full potential. The generosity of donors makes it possible for pupils to access the exceptional education and opportunities offered at UCS, regardless of financial means. Your contributions create a ripple effect, enriching not only the recipients’ lives but also the school community as a whole. By supporting bursaries, you play a crucial role in shaping the future, empowering the next generation to achieve more and contribute positively to society.
have had access to this anywhere else.
Everyone at UCS is extremely passionate about their pursuits, whether academic or co-curricular. Being surrounded by such dedicated individuals and being constantly challenged by teachers to think and solve seemingly impossible problems has shown me how much I am capable of achieving.
It’s been life-changing.
Access to this amazing school, thanks to the Bursary Award, has been an incredible experience. Despite the workload, I’ve been living on cloud nine. This opportunity has provided me with not just a new school but a new life, mindset, and wider horizons.
I have deepened my passion for academics, learned about myself, and met some of the most kind-hearted and spectacular people who will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Thank you. This incredible opportunity isn’t just a chance at a new school; it’s a golden ticket to a new, happier me. I am exploiting it to the fullest and am extremely grateful. One day, I hope to return to UCS as a donor, providing others with the same lifechanging opportunity that I have been so fortunate to receive.”
To donate visit ucs.org.uk/support-us/ donate-today or email the Development Office at development@ucs.org.uk
TRAILBLAZERS TALENTED
At UCS, music isn’t just an co-curricular activity – it’s a core part of what we do. With over 300 lessons each week, performances every term, and a dedicated team of 25 Visiting Music Teachers, our music department is home to some of the UK’s most talented artists.
We caught up with Captain of Monitors, Music Scholar, and Bursary Award Holder Finn Kjaergaard to discuss why he chose UCS to pursue his passion and what makes music such an essential part of our community.
FINDING HIS RHYTHM
Finn is recognised nationally as an exceptionally talented musician; he has captivated audiences across the country, from busking for crowds of tourists to sold-out shows at the Royal Albert Hall.
“I started playing the violin when I was four at a local music hub near Hackney,” he recalls fondly. “I also started piano lessons at my primary school when I was seven and grew up singing in choirs there too.” Finn’s musical aptitude did not go unnoticed and by 11 he had secured a spot in
the Junior Department of the Royal College of Music, which he still attends today. From there, he earned a coveted position in the National Youth Orchestra, which he shares “has been one of the most treasured highlights of his musical journey”.
Finn joined UCS at 11 years old and felt even then that it was the ideal environment to cultivate his talents. The school’s music department stood out for its enthusiasm and willingness to explore new ideas. “The level of the chamber music was also high, and I knew I would have a lot of fun playing in so many high-quality orchestras,” Finn explained.
“UCS seemed like a school that would help me grow as a person. It seemed like a place which got the grades without driving their students into the ground with stress.
There was an air of freedom and expression when my parents and I came to look at UCS, as though everyone could find their place here and there was no fixed idea of what that meant.”
“THIS SCHOOL HAS INFLUENCED THE WAY I THINK HOW TO PLAY ABOUT MUSIC ME SO MUCH ABOUT AND HAS TAUGHT WITH OTHERS”
THE UCS EXPERIENCE
Music at UCS is not only about mastering an instrument or performing in an orchestra; it is about fostering a sense of community and selfexpression. Finn describes music as a “rock” that steadies his school life, providing a place of solace and connection even on challenging days.
Finn explains: “The high standard that all the music is played at [at UCS] means that everyone respects it.
So many people play an instrument or do something musical which means that even if you don’t, you probably have a friend who does and you might still come to a concert to watch them play. People want to see talented people do complex things – especially in groups of this scale. There’s something so real and alive about getting to watch the great designs of a symphony work themselves out in front of you through 60 teenage musicians.”
What you’re doing is changing someone’s life. It’s unfair when someone smart, talented and studious isn’t able to flourish because of their background, but you are changing that, one child at a time. You changed my life and you’ll change others too.
Finn
THE ROLE OF THE BURSARY PROGRAMME
Finn’s experience is not only a testament to the incredible power of music but also to the transformative impact of the UCS Bursary Award programme. Without the financial support provided by his Bursary Award and music scholarship, Finn shares that he would not have been able to attend UCS.
“Without these awards, I wouldn’t have the financial means to experience any of the things this amazing school
has to offer. The school has influenced the way I think about music and taught me so much about playing together with other people.
It’s also shaped the kind of person I’ll go on to be when I get out into the world. For my Bursary Award , I’ll always be very, very grateful.”
The success of the UCS Bursary Award programme is made possible by the generosity of donors. It is this generosity that enables young people to attend UCS and to enhance their musical ability while here.
A FUTURE FULL OF PROMISE
Looking ahead, Finn’s future goals are diverse and ambitious. He hopes to continue playing violin in orchestras and chamber ensembles, explore conducting and composition, and pursue a Classics degree at Cambridge next academic year, where he also plans to apply as a choral scholar. If his track record is anything to go by, we have no doubt that Finn will achieve all he puts his mind to – and more!
In a school where music is woven into the fabric of daily life, we must continue to invest in our provision.
To find out more about how your support can help unlock a world of possibilities, both in music and beyond, contact the Development Office today at development@ucs.org.uk
DONATE TODAY, TRANSFORM TOMORROW
Tomorrow’s Trailblazers is our chance to help create and grow a school for the future – a place that builds on the aspirations we were founded on 200 years ago. Every donation brings our pupils a little closer to the bright future they deserve.
YOUR LEGACY
We are proud to offer an education where curiosity is nurtured, talents are discovered, and dreams are realised. Legacy giving is a powerful way to ensure that these values live on; giving future generations the opportunity to benefit from the exceptional education that UCS offers.
HOW TO LEAVE A LEGACY
UCS has partnered with Farewills, a free award-winning Will writing service which enables Old Gowers to create a Will and contribute to the future of UCS, in a matter of minutes.
To claim yours, please email development@ucs.org.uk
To find out more about other ways to leave a legacy, visit ucs.org.uk/support-us/ legacies
JOIN THE 1830 SOCIETY
When you notify us of your legacy gift, you become a valued member of the 1830 Society. The 1830 Society was formed to recognise and celebrate the generosity of those who make a planned gift.
As a member, you’ll receive:
• Special Recognition: Your name will be honoured in our publications and on our legacy donor board in the Great Hall.
• Invitations to Exclusive Events: Join us for special events and receptions where you can meet other benefactors and see first-hand the impact of your generosity.
• Regular Updates: Stay informed about progress and achievements at UCS, knowing that you’ve played a pivotal role in shaping our future.
THE GIFT OF ONE YEAR’S FEES CAN PERSON’S LIFE ANY AMOUNT TRANSFORM CHANGE THE OF A YOUNG BUT A GIFT OF CAN HELP TO TRAJECTORY THEIR FUTURE. FOREVER,
YOUR LEGACY, OUR FUTURE
By including UCS in your Will, you are making a lasting investment in the lives of countless pupils. Your generosity will ensure that UCS continues to be a place where young minds are challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.
To learn more about leaving a gift in your Will, please contact the Development Office at development@ucs.org.uk or visit ucs.org.uk/support-us/legacies
WELLBEING AT UCS
At UCS, student wellbeing is a top priority. Wellbeing is not an add-on to a wider curriculum, but should be embedded in all that we do. That’s why we have implemented programmes that help students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
We spoke with sixth form pupil Arman about the Peer Education Project and subject mentorship schemes, which are key to this approach.
“The transition from primary to secondary, coupled with exams and extracurriculars, can be tough,” Arman says. “UCS offers programmes like peer mentorship to help pupils navigate these challenges. Volunteers are trained to prioritise the wellbeing of our mentees, creating safe spaces for them to express concerns and build confidence.”
Arman and his peers teach younger pupils about mental health, including strategies to manage group dynamics and techniques to facilitate healthy discussions. This training not only equips them with valuable skills but also reinforces UCS’s commitment to outstanding mental health support.
Arman explains that volunteering helps to foster a greater sense of community, not just for those receiving the mentoring but for those who deliver it, and everyone around them.
“My experience as a volunteer has been incredibly rewarding. Once, I was playing football at lunch with my friends and while playing I heard my name cheered loudly. I looked to my right and saw seven or eight of the students in the class I was mentoring all sitting around a bench, cheering my friends and me on as we played. They later told me that they enjoyed the work my peers and I were doing in their class, which really brightened my day,” he explains.
For Arman, mentoring younger students initially meant stepping out of his comfort zone, but the effect has been transformative.
It’s helped him build confidence, improve communication skills, and deepen his understanding of mental health. The relationships formed through these programmes, from hallway fist bumps to meaningful conversations, are evidence of the benefits of bringing pupils together across year groups.
UCS’s focus on wellbeing strengthens the entire school community. Programmes like peer mentorship and the Peer Education Project create an environment where students grow together, support one another, and build lasting connections.
Pupils like Arman strengthen our community, bringing more people together, and helping more young people to build their resilience.
The new wellbeing centre at UCS is a testament to the School’s dedication to pupil welfare. It will offer quiet spaces, counselling rooms, and resources for pupils to unwind and seek support, promoting emotional balance and resilience.
To support the project, contact the UCS Development Office at development@ucs.org.uk
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2024/25
We are delighted to share with you a series of events designed to bring our community together, celebrate your achievements, and foster connections among Old Gowers, current pupils, and parents.
THE OLD GOWERS’ REUNION
Join us for a memorable evening as we welcome alumni back for the annual Old Gowers’ Reunion. This event is a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with former classmates, reminisce about your time at the school, and learn about the exciting developments on campus.
THE 1830 SOCIETY LUNCH
The 1830 Society Lunch is an exclusive event which celebrates those who are making a lasting impact on our community through planned giving. If you are a legacy donor to the School, please join us as we celebrate the profound difference your generosity makes in the lives of our pupils, today and for the many years to come.
AUTUMN CONCERT DRINKS RECEPTION
This exclusive event is dedicated to our most generous supporters, giving a term’s fees or more. It is an opportunity to express our gratitude for your generous contributions and to discuss the impactful projects your support has enabled.
HEALTHCARE NETWORKING (PUPIL)
Aimed at current pupils interested in healthcare careers, this networking event will feature Old Gowers and industry specialists sharing insights into the different avenues available within the sector. It’s an invaluable chance for pupils to gain advice from professionals and explore potential career paths. If you work in healthcare, please contact us today on oldgowers@ucs.org.uk to take part.
OLD GOWERS’ ANNUAL DINNER
This prestigious formal event, hosted in the Refectory, celebrates the Old Gower community and brings everyone together for an evening of speeches, dining, and wine. The Old Gowers’ Annual Dinner is a night of elegance, camaraderie, and celebration, honouring the rich history and accomplishments of our alumni community.
UCS GIVING DAY
Our first ever Giving Day is a critical fundraising event aimed at supporting our Bursary Award programme. This special day will be dedicated to celebrating our community’s generosity and raising funds to support the Bursary Award programme. It will be a fantastic opportunity for pupils, parents, Old Gowers, and community members to come together, participate in competitions and activities, and contribute to the future of UCS.
HEALTHCARE NETWORKING
(OG AND PARENT)
This event provides a platform for OGs and parents working in the healthcare sector to network, share experiences, and discuss industry trends. If you are working in the healthcare sector, considering a move into the healthcare sector, or just want to learn more about the avenues available, please join us.
Our events are curated to meet the needs of bespoke groups and audiences. Invitations are usually sent by email or mail. To ensure you receive invitations to the correct events, please update us if your details have changed. To change your details please visit ucs.org.uk/community/ update-your-details or email the Development Office at development@ucs.org.uk
SUMMER DRINKS PARTY
Celebrate the beginning of summer with us at the annual Summer Drinks Party. This event brings together alumni, current parents, and friends of the school for an evening of relaxation and socialising in the Great Hall.
STAY IN TOUCH
I have seen students emerge from the chrysalis of insecurity, and self-doubt and discover confidence, and power, and self-belief.
UPDATE YOUR DETAILS
We are thrilled to share the impact you are having on our community. Your dedication – whether as donors, parents, or alumni – has played a crucial role in shaping the success and growth of philanthropy at UCS. As we continue to engage our community, we kindly ask that you provide us with your updated contact details.
This will help us to celebrate your contributions and keep you informed about the meaningful ways your support is making a difference.
Your support is integral to our success. Thank you for being an essential part of the UCS journey and for helping us create a brighter future together!
To update your details please visit ucs.org.uk/community/update-yourdetails or email the Development Office at development@ucs.org.uk
Ms Bex Baxter, Head of Sixth Form