The story of NLCS began in April 1850 when Frances Mary Buss, a pioneer in girls’ education, founded North London Collegiate School in her family home at 46 Camden Street, Camden Town. Guided by her visionary approach, the school became synonymous with academic excellence, ambition, and the belief that education should unlock potential and inspire confidence.
The Buss family played a pivotal role in the school’s early years. Frances’s brother Septimus and father, R.W. Buss—an artist who illustrated Dickens’ novels—contributed to the vibrant and creative environment she sought to create. Today, some of R.W. Buss’s paintings hang in the historic Buss Room at the Old House in Canons, a reminder of the school’s rich cultural heritage.
Over 170 years later, NLCS continues to uphold Frances Mary Buss’s vision, offering an academically rigorous education that inspires curiosity, independence, and a global outlook. With campuses around the world, including NLCS (Singapore), the legacy of innovation and excellence is thriving, preparing students to lead and succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Explore the journey of North London Collegiate School from its founding in London in 1850 to its emergence as a globally recognised network of leading international schools. This timeline highlights the milestones that have shaped the NLCS family and celebrates its enduring legacy of academic excellence and innovation.
The first international campus of NLCS opened on Jeju Island, bringing the distinctive NLCS ethos to Asia. NLCS Jeju offers a co-educational environment known for its academic rigour, exceptional pastoral care, and a vibrant co-curricular programme.
NLCS (Singapore) extended the NLCS ethos to Southeast Asia, offering an education that nurtures a love of learning and personal growth. The school balances academic excellence with an extensive co-curricular programme, fostering well-rounded and ambitious students.
North London Collegiate School was established in London by Frances Mary Buss, a pioneer in education who transformed the opportunities available to girls. Her vision set a new standard for academic excellence and innovation, creating a legacy that continues to thrive.
Expanding into the Middle East, NLCS Dubai opened its doors to students from diverse backgrounds. The school combines the traditional academic strengths of NLCS with the cultural richness of Dubai, delivering the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme in a dynamic learning environment.
Scheduled to open in August 2025, NLCS Kobe will deliver an ambitious and academically challenging education in the Kansai region of Japan. Integrating local cultural elements, the school represents the latest chapter in the global expansion of the NLCS family.
Founder’s Day at NLCS (Singapore) is a cherished tradition that honours the visionary legacy of Frances Mary Buss, who founded North London Collegiate School in 1850. This special occasion celebrates her pioneering dedication to academic excellence and personal growth while recognising the invaluable contributions of founders, benefactors, and the entire NLCS global community.
The day is marked by meaningful traditions, including a Service of Thanksgiving, uplifting musical performances, and the iconic daffodil procession—a tribute to Miss Buss’s favourite flower. These elements make Founder’s Day a memorable celebration of our shared history and values.
As NLCS prepares to celebrate its 175th anniversary in 2025, Founder’s Day takes on even greater significance, reflecting over a century and a half of educational excellence and innovation. NLCS’s international campuses, including Singapore, proudly uphold this tradition, fostering a sense of unity and belonging across the global NLCS family.
PEI Registration Number: 201621489R | Period of Registration: 25 July 2023 to 24 July 2027
