Scholarship Brochure
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS
We offer a small but important number of scholarships at entry into Years 7 and 9 as well as for the Sixth Form (Year 12) across a number of disciplines. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of achievements in chosen specialised subjects, the satisfactory completion of our examination papers, a scholarship assessment and interview with a member of the Senior Leadership Team.
All our scholars are excellent role models inside and outside the classroom. They participate fully in the life of the school and represent the school at various functions.
Parents of candidates interested in a scholarship award should complete the scholarship application form which can be downloaded from the admissions page on the school website. Applications for external candidates should be endorsed by the candidate’s current school and candidates are asked to write a letter of application, stating why they should be considered for a scholarship.
All candidates for scholarship awards will be invited to ‘Scholars’ Day’. Applicants will have separate sessions relating to their particular discipline which will involve presenting to or performing for the appropriate Head of Department or undertaking skills tests.
We look forward to receiving your child’s application, after which we will inform you of the specific requirements for their scholarship assessment day should they be called by the review panel. Applicants will be notified of the result by the Headmistress as soon as possible after the Scholars’ Day.
Our Admissions team are happy to help and advise at any stage.
E: applications@rgs-surreyhills.org T: 01372 384240
APPLICATION
DEADLINE
MONDAY 20TH OCTOBER 2025
ASSESSMENT / SCHOLARS DAY
SPORT + DRAMA TUESDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2025
ART + MUSIC WEDNESDAY 12TH NOVEMBER 2025
ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS
Academic scholarships are available to all registered candidates and are based on attainment in our entrance tests. Applications for academic scholarships are therefore not required. Scholars are recognised within the school and expected to be role models for their peers. All academic scholars are supported, encouraged and challenged in a variety of different ways.
Expectations of Academic Scholars
• Demonstrate a strong work ethic in their academic studies
• Take on advice from their academic mentors
• Be resourceful and ambitious about how they acquire knowledge and skills
• Demonstrate leadership in lessons and be a positive role model to others
• Take an active part in the scholarship programme and embrace the opportunities available
Academic Scholars will enjoy
• Academic mentoring to help guide them to reach their academic potential and goals
• Opportunities to enter both internal and external subject competitions for example the Science Crest Awards, UKMT Maths Challenges, Public Speaking, Creative Writing, Senior Youth Speaks/Rotary Club Debating, Young Writers’, GCHQ and MI5 Spy Challenge for French Speakers, BFI French into Film and several others.
• Taking the lead on projects and initiatives as part of nationally recognised events such as National Science Week which celebrates STEM, World Book Day, Pi Day and National Poetry Day to name just a few.
• Participation in cross-curricular projects such as the Spanish/Art departments’ Mexican Calveras project or the French/Music departments’ junior scholars French singing project.
• Opportunities to develop leadership and mentoring skills by helping younger students, for example our linguists working with GCSE students to help with their language speaking.
Academic scholars are encouraged to foster and role model a love of learning in all that they do and to lead by example, bringing it alive in everyday school life. We guide and support them in their area of particular interest. We give close guidance and help with accessing chosen universities, with advice on personal statements, interview practice and preparation for any entrance exams which they may need to take.
Ezi
Ezi navigated her way through all the subjects successfully in her Prep school, and continues to do so at RGS Surrey Hills. Her favourite subjects at school are languages, and wishes to incorporate this into her future career in property law. She actively participates in Book Club and enjoys the opportunity to discuss literature.
Ezi is grateful that she gets 1-to-1 mentoring with teachers, which has been invaluable when deciding on her future pathway.
Daisy
Asides from being RGS Surrey Hills’s Head Girl, Daisy spends a lot of her time in the Sports Centre learning about sports science and health. She enjoys Biology, English Language and languages. She continually shows determination, drive and commitment inside and outside of the classroom. Daisy is able to encourage teams, as well as improve individually in her subjects and extra curricular activities.
SPORT SCHOLARSHIPS
At RGS Surrey Hills, we are committed to developing talented athletes who will contribute to the life of the school through sport, both on and off the field. Sport scholars will be expected to showcase their skills and commitment in the school’s major sports:
• Boys: Football, Rugby, Basketball, Cricket
• Girls: Football, Netball, Indoor - Hockey, Cricket
Alongside their performances in fixtures and training, scholars will also be assessed on key components of athletic development, including agility, coordination, flexibility, strength and speed. Applicants with additional sporting talents are welcome to demonstrate these during the assessment process.
Every applicant will also attend an interview with the Director of Sport and Sports Staff, where they will be asked about their sporting journey, achievements, ambitions, as well as their application to RGS Surrey Hills.
RGS Surrey Hills Sport Scholars are expected to:
• Be fully committed to the school’s sporting programme, including Inter-House competitions, participation in representative teams, and full availability for fixtures.
• Demonstrate the highest levels of teamwork, sportsmanship, and leadership both in training and in competition.
• Take feedback positively and work closely with their coaches and teachers to continually develop their performance.
• Show ambition and resilience, seeking opportunities to improve and extend their skills across a range of sports.
• Represent the school with pride, recognising that they are role models for their peers and ambassadors for RGS Surrey Hills.
Sport Scholars will enjoy:
• Specialist coaching
• Termly Athletic and fitness assessment
• Strength and conditioning support
• Performance lifestyle and mentoring support
We highly value sport and physical activity at RGS Surrey Hills with a focus across the school on ‘healthy body, healthy mind’. Being active is important, not only for physical health but also for mental health and this is reflected in the provision of a large and varied programme of physical activities as well as our excellent sporting facilities.
Our sports scholars play an important role in demonstrating the benefits of keeping active, of pursuing excellence and achieving their goals. They learn though the ups and downs of competition, through teamwork and through their personal growth. Skills for life are gained in many ways and we celebrate those for whom sport is their passion, with all that this brings to them personally and to School.
Maia
Maia started gymnastics when she was 3 years old. She transitioned to TeamGym when she was 10 years old at her current club, Leatherhead & Dorking, where her team hold the current British TeamGym championships title. Maia has won various medals and trophies in her journey including winning the National Milano Trios. Maia aspires to be part of Team GB, hopefully in time for the Olympics in 2028!
Luca
Football has always been Luca’s biggest passion, but he has the ability and desire to play a majority of sports to a good level. Luca is a keen golfer, being previously selected for Surrey golf. He dedicates his time mostly to the Dorking Wanderers Youth Development football squad. He is a determined sportman and shows great desire to be the top of his game and progress into the sports industry.
ART SCHOLARSHIPS
Potential art scholars are expected to bring a portfolio of previous work along with them on the day of their scholarship assessment. This provides a good indication of their artistic ability and evidence of their commitment to the subject. Sketch books are also a valuable source of information indicating a candidate’s particular interest and their ability to develop an idea from inception to conclusion across a range of disciplines and materials.
On the day of the scholarship test there is an observational drawing test which is still the ultimate barometer of a pupil’s ability and a true measure of their dexterity and perception. Whatever they possess or don’t possess is revealed by this process.
The Creative Arts department encompasses Art, 3D Design and Fashion/Textiles offering students a broad and varied range of subjects. Practical ‘hands on’ skills development alongside digital and CAD/CAM facilities and teaching provides students with the technical abilities to progress into many and varied courses of study and future careers.
Expectations of Art Scholars
• Commitment to take creative arts subjects at GCSE
• Engage with the advice and guidance provided through the programme
• Be resourceful and ambitious about how they develop their skills and improve their artistic and creative progression
• Demonstrate leadership in lessons, workshops and guest lectures and be a positive role model to others
• Keep a personal sketchbook of their work produced outside of school which will be reviewed termly by our Head of Creative Arts
• Their artwork will be displayed around the school campus
• Take an active part in the scholarship programme and embrace the opportunities available including being an ambassador for the subject at open days and other events
Art scholars will enjoy
• Termly scholars’ mentoring sessions to explore and review Art and Design ambitions, ongoing projects and skills progression
• Opportunities to be entered for relevant competitions internally and externally
• Experimental practical workshops with focus on broader skills development
• Internal and external exhibitions of their work where scholars also learn to curate and present their work
Edward
Edward has enjoyed art his entire life, using it as a way to express himself. From a young age, he has been inspired by street art and continues to find joy in drawing in his room, where he feels endless possibilities and freedom. Receiving a scholarship at RGS Surrey Hills has given Edward the chance to take his passion further and explore new artistic opportunities. He hopes to use the skills he has developed in art to shape his future career after completing his GCSEs and A levels.
Jessica
Jessica has been an art scholar for a year, though her passion began in childhood. She is fascinated by portraits and capturing human emotion, drawing inspiration from Monica Lee and Tomasz Mso’s detailed, expressive styles. Preferring oil paint, Jessica has taught herself to blend colours and work expressively, developing her own style. She hopes her artwork resonates with viewers and invites them to form their own interpretations.
DRAMA SCHOLARSHIPS
The Drama Department warmly welcomes applications from talented performers and theatrical technicians. We are looking for students with passion, creativity, and commitment, who will thrive as part of our vibrant and dynamic community.
Audition
and
Application
Process
Applicants for performance scholarships are invited to prepare a short monologue (2–3 minutes) of their own choice to present on the day. Costume is not required. We encourage students to choose a piece that best showcases their skills in characterisation, vocal clarity, and physical expression.
Technical applicants are asked to deliver a short presentation on an example of set, lighting, or sound design they have admired in professional theatre, film, or television.
On assessment days where there are multiple applicants, students will also take part in a group workshop designed to highlight their teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. Each candidate will then have a short conversation with the Head of Drama, providing the opportunity to discuss their previous experiences in productions, rehearsals, or performances. This meeting also allows students to learn more about the exciting role of a Drama Scholar within the department.
What it means to be a Drama Scholar
• Becoming a Drama Scholar at RGS Surrey Hills is a rewarding opportunity for students who are passionate about performance and creativity. Our scholars are ambassadors for the department, leading by example with their commitment, enthusiasm, and discipline. They take part in productions, workshops, and enrichment opportunities, developing not only their performance skills but also their confidence, resilience, and ability to work collaboratively.
• Drama Scholars are expected to:
• Cultivate a strong work ethic in all academic drama studies and demonstrate leadership qualities.
• Commit to taking GCSE and A-Level
In return, scholars enjoy a wealth of opportunities, including:
• Regular performance opportunities throughout the school year, including plays, musical theatre, showcases, and open-air productions.
• Cross-year group and Prep School workshops, encouraging leadership and ownership of drama.
• Trips to leading theatre venues to experience both classic and contemporary productions.
• One-to-one support and guidance with pathways into stage schools, drama schools, and youth theatre.
Our Facilities and Staff:
RGS Surrey Hills offers outstanding facilities, including a fully equipped black box drama studio and a multi-purpose hall with state-of-the-art lighting, sound, and flexible staging. Our teaching staff bring a wealth of professional experience in both straight drama and musical theatre, ensuring that every scholar is inspired, challenged, and supported to reach their full potential.
Ruby
Ruby started on stage at the age of 5 singing and dancing to It’s a hard knock life from Annie. Since then, she has been involved in various productions with her performing arts school. More recently she has performed in The Snow Queen and Skellig at The Hawth Theatre. She is described by her theatre school teacher as a ‘triple threat’ as she is equally strong in all three disciplines of acting, singing and dancing.
Khloe
From the age of 4, Khloe has been acting, dancing and singing with her performing arts school Stagecoach. She has taken part in every production and holiday workshop and most recently starred as High Witch in Witches. She loves all 3 disciplines (acting, singing and dancing), however has a passion for singing, where she holds a Grade 4 distinction and won her primary school singing competition singing Adele’s ‘Someone like you’. She loves supporting younger students with their lines and routines.
MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS
At RGS Surrey Hills we understand that there are many different ways of being musical. We are principally looking for pupils who are passionate about music and who can demonstrate a commitment to the subject.
The scholarship audition is quite informal and provides an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate what they can do. This would typically involve performing on the candidate’s main instrument(s); a conversation with the Director of Music about their musical experiences and aspirations, and some simple aural tests.
The expected minimum standard for Year 7 applications would be around grade 3/4; for Year 9, grade 4/5 and Sixth Form applicants should be at grade 6 or above. That said, talented and dedicated pupils who do not meet these requirements should not be discouraged from applying.
Expectations of Music Scholars
• Demonstrate a strong work ethic in their music studies
• Commitment to take GCSE music
• Be resourceful and ambitious about how they acquire knowledge and skills
• Demonstrate leadership in lessons, performances and rehearsals and be a positive role model to others
• Take an active part in the scholarship programme and embrace the opportunities available
• Perform in all music concerts and events
Music Scholars will enjoy
• Mentoring and progress reviews with music staff to help guide them to reach their potential
• Masterclasses and workshops with professional musicians and specialist practitioners, for example in composing and conducting
• Regular performance opportunities to internal and external audiences throughout the school year. For example, ensembles, soirees, showcase evenings and Inter-Thirds competitions as well performances supporting whole school Drama productions
• Scholars’ forums with the Head of Music to explore and develop an area of musical interest and music in the wider school context
• Visits to the West End theatres and concerts at external venues
Music scholars play a central role in enriching school life with their contribution to school productions, concerts and other performance events.
Our scholarship programme is designed to stretch and challenge our most able musicians. They benefit from developing their individual talent as well as in other areas such as teamwork, leadership and independence. Focus on developing skills in music technology, analysis and appraisal as well as interpretation and competing further enhances their musicianship, creative approach and technical ability.
Krystal
Krystal is one of our Year 10 Music scholars and has always had a passion for music from a young age. Throughout her early school life, she has always been selected for solos, representing her primary school and now RGS Surrey Hills. She gained her first solo when she was just in Reception, then every year thereafter up to her leavers’ show in Year 6. She plays the piano too. In a world of possibilities, Krystal plans on being a high level athlete, as well as a singer songwriter.
Ben
Ben is a Year 13 Music scholar. Ben started playing the guitars at a young age and was a member of ACM. The guitar has opened up a whole world of music opportunities for him as he enjoys playing along to a wide range of music. He has taken grade 7, and has performed solos in and out of school. Ben loves all kinds of music, and has written and sung his own. He would love a career in the performing arts.
At RGS Surrey Hills, we understand all students are individuals and approach learning in different ways. Our holistic approach to education develops our childrens’ intellectual, social, physical and artistic talents. It encourages them to explore a path of self discovery thus stimulating the unique abilities within each child to achieve success.
