Scholarships and Bursaries

A pupil who wins an academic scholarship will have an intellectual curiosity and a strong work ethic and will be expected to represent the school in competitions such as the Mathematics Olympiad or writing competitions. In addition, we would expect them to have a thirst and enthusiasm for learning and be resourceful about the different ways of acquiring knowledge and understanding the processes involved. They should be well organised, plan and be prepared to try new experiences. Successful recipients of the Academic Scholarship are expected to display exceptional academic ability. These scholarships will be offered at the sole discretion of the Headteacher.

All pupils will sit an online entrance test. The test requires students to demonstrate a range of skills such as the ability to interpret, infer, deduce and think critically. It is not curriculum-based and does not test the ability to retrieve learned knowledge. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an Interview with the Headteacher.

For new pupils: pupils will sit an online entrance test as part of their taster day. If they score sufficiently highly, they will be invited for an Interview with the Headteacher. For current pupils: pupils will also sit an online entrance test. If they score sufficiently highly, they will be invited for an Interview with the Headteacher.

Music Scholarships are offered to those pupils who show ability, commitment and potential in their chosen instrument at audition. In addition to grade achievement, a fundamental passion and musical ambition will be looked for, along with a willingness to participate and contribute to the rich musical life of the School.

Applicants are selected by means of a musical audition and interview. The audition and interview for a Music Scholarship are intended to discover musical ability, potential and willingness to commit to the musical life of the school. Applicants should be able to perform accurately to a high standard on their main instrument or voice and demonstrate confidence and enthusiasm.

Qualifications in ABRSM/Trinity Guildhall/Rock School (or equivalent) and Theory of Music examinations are not a necessity but would be preferred. As a guide, a Grade 3 standard or better would be indicative of the pupil’s ability and potential. Prospective candidates should already be involved in music-making, representing their school through an orchestra, band or choir or participating in other musical ensembles as part of a local or community setting.

Both new and current pupils are required to submit the Music Scholarship application form. Applicants must also provide a reference from their current Music teacher supporting their application. New pupils must also attend a taster day.

Successful applicants will be invited to attend an Assessment Day. During this day, pupils will be asked to:

If performing sufficiently highly during the Assessment Day, the candidate will be invited to undertake an interview with the Headteacher, and the Head of Music.

Each year we award Sports Scholarships to those individuals who demonstrate aspirations to progress and achieve high levels of success within their chosen sport.

In general, potential to reach, or already be playing at club level is expected, and regional representation would be within the capabilities of the successful scholar. Successful applicants will be expected to make a contribution to our main school sports: football, netball, athletics, hockey and cricket.

Applicants are expected to show exceptional promise in at least one sport and have an established record of achievement at their current school and at club/regional level.

Both new and current pupils are required to submit the Sport Scholarship application form. provide a record of their sporting achievements at a high level and provide a reference from their current PE teacher or coach supporting their application. Any additional information and references from external clubs should also be submitted.

New pupils must also attend a taster day.

Successful applicants will be invited to attend an Assessment Day.

During this day, pupils will be assessed in a series of physical activities including agility, stamina, fitness, teamwork, attitude to training and specific sport ability.

If performing sufficiently highly during the Assessment Day, the candidate will be invited to undertake an interview with the Headteacher, and the Director of Sport.