Learning at Cokethorpe School is a dynamic and challenging process. We want every pupil to be ready to challenge themselves and to embrace the many opportunities that the School offers. We develop interested, passionate learners who recognise the importance of focused application whilst also being ready to embrace challenge and be excited by new ideas.
Our Scholarships and Awards aim to recognise and promote those who embody the attitude and approach to learning that we value whilst also rewarding those who show a particular aptitude in a specific area.
Scholarships are awarded to those pupils who show a particular aptitude in one or more academic subjects.
Awards are awarded to those pupils who show a particular aptitude in one or more of the following subjects: Art, Design and Technology, Drama, Music and Sport.
ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS
Academic Scholarships are awarded to candidates who show commitment, determination, courage and persistence in pursuit of their academic goals. Academic Scholars are not only expected to display academic excellence; they are expected to take risks, show intellectual curiosity, and act as leaders amongst their peers in terms of academic engagement.
We expect our Scholars to take the initiative in sharing their ideas and findings with their peers.
To be a Scholar is to be interested, always questioning and hungry for challenge.
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME
The Scholarship Programme is coordinated by two Heads of Scholars at the School. Scholars are expected to take a leading role both within the classroom and beyond. In addition to the Scholars’ Club AOB, they will attend a mixture of workshops, lectures and trips, which provide opportunities for them to extend their thinking to broader contexts. Each year, the Scholars pursue independent research into a topic of their choosing, which is written up as an academic article for publication in the Scholars’ Journal. This is then presented at the annual Exhibition Evening, enabling them to share and discuss their academic passions. The aim of the programme is to provide all Scholars with varied opportunities for challenging debate, creative disagreement and intellectual stimulation.
11+ ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT
The Clarke Scholarship is awarded to a member of the First Form following nomination from the Head of Prep School. Otherwise, Scholarships are awarded during the Lent Term, following a review of aptitude and attitude during the Michaelmas Term.
TENURE
Successful candidates awarded Academic Scholarships at 11+ can expect to keep the title and status until they reach the end of the Third Form.
Each year there is a review in which each Scholar must justify how he or she is meeting the expectations of Scholarship.
NAMED SCHOLARSHIPS
There is one named Scholarships available at 11+:
The Clarke Scholarship: Awarded to the most outstanding candidate from the Cokethorpe Prep School.
13+ ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT
(EXTERNAL CANDIDATES)
Scholarship Assessment for 13+ takes place over two days.
Subject Papers
All Academic Scholarship candidates are required to sit three subject papers of one hour each, alongside the Headmaster’s general paper.
Assessment of Learning Attitudes and Mindset
In addition to the entrance papers, we assess learning attitudes in order to help determine which candidates would be the best role models. This requires candidates to show that they are able to rise to a challenge, reflect on their work, and maintain persistence in a task.
This assessment may be conducted in an interview or with others in a group situation.
Philosophical Investigations
Scholars in the Fourth and Fifth Forms follow the two-year Philosophical Investigations course. This is a bespoke programme loosely structured around the history of Philosophy. It is designed to extend and enrich the curriculum, offering opportunities to develop critical thinking skills as well as a chance to learn more about the ways in which our concepts and values are constructed.
The Philosophical Investigations culminates with essays being submitted for an external competition. It is a rigorous, demanding and stimulating course involving discussion and debate in groups of eight to ten pupils.
Interviews
All candidates for Academic Scholarship will have interviews with the Headmaster and the Heads of Scholars.
TENURE
Successful candidates awarded Academic Scholarships at 13+ can expect to keep the title and status until they reach the end of the Fifth Form.
Each year there is a review in which each Scholar must justify how he or she is meeting the expectations of Scholarship.
NAMED SCHOLARSHIP
There are two named Scholarships available at 13+:
The Allen Scholarship: recognising outstanding academic ability. This named Scholarship will be determined on the basis of performance in the assessment examinations.
The Trevis Scholarship: recognising excellence in the classics or modern languages. This named Scholarship will be determined on the basis of candidates’ performance in the French, Spanish and Latin assessment papers.
16+ SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT
WHO MAY APPLY?
Any pupil in Fifth Form may apply, whether currently at Cokethorpe or at a different school and considering an application for Sixth Form. Assessments take place in the Michaelmas Term, for the following academic year.
THE APPLICATION PROCESS
Prospective candidates should write to the Heads of Scholars, Mr Elkin-Jones (imej@cokethorpe.org) and Miss Hutchinson (ach@cokethorpe.org) by Monday 4 November 2024. The letter, which should be sent as an attached pdf, should explain why the candidate wishes to become an Sixth Form Academic Scholar, and should demonstrate, with supporting evidence, the candidate’s suitability (see ‘Expectations’, below). The letter should not only highlight the applicant’s past achievements and accolades, but also serve as a statement of intent; the letter should be detailed and specific.
Short-listed candidates will be invited to the 16+ Scholarship Assessment Day on Thursday 14 November 2024, where candidates will attend a panel interview with the Heads of Scholars, Mr Elkin-Jones and Ms Hutchinson. Further details will be given on receipt of applications.
Please note: awarded Scholarships will be conditional upon the recipient continuing to engage positively with the academic programme through the Fifth Form, and achieving outstanding GCSE results. It is also contingent upon a final qualifying interview to be held at the beginning of the Michaelmas Term of Lower Sixth (September 2025).
EXPECTATIONS
Sixth Form Scholars are expected:
• To actively promote the School’s six traits of Leadership, through their academic endeavours
• To participate fully in the Scholars’ Programme. This includes, but is not limited to, conducting an Independent Research Project which is presented at the Scholars’ Exhibition Evening
• To excel academically (both inside and outside the classroom), and, in doing so, inspire others in the School to be ambitious and hard-working
• To model the qualities of an Academic Scholar – determination, ambition, rigour and enquiry –and to shape, for the better, the academic culture of the School
• To take advantage of opportunities to develop themselves, and others, academically beyond the classroom: for example, by entering national essay competitions, by taking part in student conferences and the Model United Nations, by contributing to School publications, by providing academic mentoring for younger pupils
• To play a key role in the organisation of the Annual Scholars’ Dinner, and other academic events
• To be in it for the right reason: not to further their own CV or Personal Statement, but to make the School a better place
• To have achieved outstanding levels of academic attainment throughout their education (including excellent GCSE results)
• To have consistently demonstrated an excellent attitude to learning in, and outside of, lessons
• To have been active contributors to the 11+ and 13+ Scholars’ Programme, or, for those who are new to the programme, to demonstrate a desire to make up for lost time.
TENURE
A successful candidate can expect to keep the title, status and responsibility of Sixth Form Scholar until they reach the end of their time at Cokethorpe. At the end of the Lower Sixth, there is a review in which each Scholar must justify how he or she is meeting the expectations of the award.
AWARD HOLDERS
ART, DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY, DRAMA, MUSIC AND SPORT
As a School we believe in the importance of recognising talent across a range of disciplines. Our Art, Design and Technology, Drama, Music and Sport Award Holders are provided with opportunities to further develop their talents. Award Holders are expected to be ambassadors of their departments and represent the School in art exhibitions, drama productions, music recitals and inter-school sports contests. In return, Award Holders receive extra support from their respective departments as they progress through the Senior School.
11+ AWARD ASSESSMENT
In order to have a comprehensive picture of those pupils who should be considered for these accolades, we make our decision after First Form pupils start at Cokethorpe Senior School. Following one term of observing the entire cohort, Heads of Department in Art, Drama, Music and Sport nominate candidates to sit assessments in their respective areas. Pupils can expect this to take place in January of the First Form year. All pupils nominated by Heads of Departments, once notified, should submit a letter of application. See ‘Application Details’ for further guidance.
TENURE
Successful candidates at 11+ can expect to keep the title until they reach the end of the Second Form. Each year there is a review in which each Award Holder must explain how he or she is meeting the expectations of the Award.
13+ AWARD ASSESSMENT
Assessments for 13+ Awards take place in the Lent Term of the preceding academic year. Any pupil can apply for a 13+ Award, see ‘Application Details’ for further guidance.
TENURE
Successful candidates at 13+ can expect to keep the title until they reach the end of the Fifth Form. Each year there is a review in which each Award Holder must explain how he or she is meeting the expectations of the Award.
16+ ASSESSMENT
Assessments for 16+ Awards take place in the Michaelmas Term of the preceding academic year. Any pupil in Year 11, be they at Cokethorpe or at another school, may apply for a 16+ Award; see “Application Details” for further guidance.
TENURE
A successful 16+ candidate can expect to keep the title, status and responsibility of Sixth Form Award-holder until they reach the end of their time at Cokethorpe. At the end of the Lower Sixth, there is a review in which each Award-holder must justify how he or she is meeting the expectations of the award.
APPLICATION DETAILS
Applicants should expect the following assessment process:
ART
Letter of Application
Candidates should submit a letter of application addressed to the Head of Art, Ms Williams (efw@cokethorpe.org); this should detail the ways in which the candidate could make an active contribution to Cokethorpe School using their artistic talent. It should refer to their particular passions and past achievements as well as illustrating character and motivation.
Portfolio of Work
Candidates should present a select portfolio of their work which may consist of a maximum of ten pieces of work and a maximum of two sketchbooks. This may include any combination of paintings, drawings or photography. Candidates could also showcase their use of digital media in the form of a short film or animation (no longer than three minutes). Candidates could also bring with them photographs of three dimensional pieces. Candidates should also include a supporting sketchbook.
Award Assessment Day
Candidates will have an interview during which they should expect to discuss issues arising from their written application. Art Award candidates will be asked to complete an observational drawing exam. Each candidate will be interviewed by the Head of Art when they will be given the opportunity to talk about their work.
Expectations in Sixth Form
Sixth Form Art Award-holders are expected:
• To have been regular attendees of Art and /or Textile AOBs and be prepared to support current AOBs
• To have taken part in School exhibitions, Plinth installations and Community Art events in School
• To be predicted a grade 7 or above at GCSE
• To proactively and independently look for opportunities to enter external Art competitions and attend Art workshops to further their skills
• To support the Department on Open Days and Option events, actively promoting Art within the School and wider community
• To be in the process of completing an Arts Award qualification and continue this progression in Sixth Form (although, of course, we are mindful that some applicants would not have had the opportunity to pursue the qualification, which would be taken into account).
DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY
Letter of Application
Candidates should submit a letter of application addressed to the Head of Design and Technology, Mrs Brown (hvb@cokethorpe.org); this should detail the ways in which the candidate could make an active contribution to Cokethorpe School using their creativity and ingenuity. They should refer to their particular interests and make reference to any ‘design and make’ activities they have worked on recently, at School or at home.
Award Assessment Day
Candidates will have an interview with the Head of Design and Technology during which they should expect to discuss issues arising from their written application, and during which they will be given the opportunity to talk about their work. Design and Technology Award candidates will also be asked to complete a short design exercise where they will be expected to demonstrate their problem solving skills through annotated sketches.
Expectations in Sixth Form
Sixth Form Design and Technology Award-holders are expected:
• To have been regular attendees of Design and Technology AOBs and be prepared to support current AOBs
• To be predicted a 7 or above at GCSE
• To proactively and independently look for opportunities to enter external design competitions, complete MOOCs, and work on personal projects beyond the curriculum
• To be considering a career in a related industry
• To support the Department on Open Days and Option events, actively promoting Design and Technology within the School and wider community.
DRAMA
Letter of Application
Candidates should submit a letter of application addressed to the Head of Drama, Mrs Hooper (clh@cokethorpe.org); this should detail the ways in which the candidate could make an active contribution to Cokethorpe School using their dramatic talent. This letter should include a paragraph regarding involvement in Drama productions and any certificates of achievement such as LAMDA qualifications.
Award Assessment Day
Candidates will have an interview with the Head of Drama. Additionally, candidates are expected to deliver two contrasting monologues of no more than two minutes each. The choice of monologues should be made by the candidate and should demonstrate their dramatic range (eg comic / tragic, modern / classical). Candidates will also be expected to participate in group work in order to demonstrate their ensemble and leadership skills.
Expectations in Sixth Form
Sixth Form Drama Award-holders are expected:
• To be an inspiring role model
• To demonstrate a genuine passion and commitment to Drama
• To represent Drama at Open Days and preview evenings
• To participate in extra-curricular productions
• To organise/produce and/or participate in independent performance(s)
• Take a leadership role in House Drama.
MUSIC
Letter of Application
Candidates should submit a letter of application addressed to the Director of Music, Mr Wilson (bjw@cokethorpe.org); this should detail the ways in which the candidate could make an active contribution to the musical life of Cokethorpe School. It should indicate which pieces will be played and the requirement for accompaniment.
Pieces that have a written accompaniment should be performed with the accompaniment; a pianist will be provided or candidates may bring their own. Although backing tracks can be used, the School would prefer live accompaniment.
Award Assessment Day
The assessment day will require candidates to:
• Perform one short piece on first instrument or voice
• Perform one short piece on second instrument or voice
• Complete sightreading and listening tests, similar to those used by the ABSRM and appropriate to the candidate’s standard.
All candidates will be asked questions of a general musical nature, and candidates must also satisfy the Music Department of their enthusiasm and commitment to music. Additional skills such as ability in the field of composition will also be taken into account. We are looking for Music Award Holders who love music and bring enthusiasm, drive and commitment to their music-making.
At the time of the audition candidates for 13+ assessment should be at least Grade 4 standard in their first instrument or voice and Grade 2 in their second instrument or voice. These ABRSM/ Trinity Guildhall grades are meant purely as a guideline. At the time of the audition, candidates for the 16+ Music Award should be at least Grade 7 in their principal instrument or voice and Grade 5 in their second instrument or voice; promise and potential, however, may be as important as actual achievement.
Expectations in Sixth Form
Sixth Form Music Award-holders are expected:
• To demonstrate a genuine passion and commitment to Music
• To be an inspiring role model to others, setting a good example at all times, for example through attendance and regular practice
• To participate fully in the wide range of ensembles and play a leading role in the life of the Music Department
• To represent the Music Department and showcase what it offers at all events, concerts, tours and Open Days
• To take leadership roles in ensembles and House Music
• To participate in the Music Award Holders programme, including attending events and trips.
SPORT
Letter of Application
Candidates should submit a letter of application addressed to the Director of Sport, Mr Robinson (jr@cokethorpe.org); this should detail the ways in which the candidate could make an active contribution to the sporting life of Cokethorpe School. This letter should include a paragraph about representative sporting achievements and examples of leadership in the last two years.
Award Assessment Day
On the assessment day candidates will be expected to take part in the following assessments:
• Interview with members of Sports Department
• Multi discipline fitness tests
• Sport specific assessment including rugby, hockey, netball or football.
The assessment provides opportunities for the candidate to demonstrate their personal fitness, leadership potential and sporting knowledge.
Expectations in Sixth Form
Sixth Form Sports Award-holders are expected:
• To be an inspiring role model for Sport
• To demonstrate a genuine passion for Sport
• To represent sport on fixtures, Open Days and preview evenings
• To participate and lead teams across all Sports
• To organise and participate in AOBs for pupils in the Corinthian Partnership and Prep School
• To be able to demonstrate the values of hard work, responsibility and commitment to Sport
• To get the little things right; to look smart, to show sportsmanship and to have respect for all.
APPLICATION AND ASSESSMENT DATES 2024-2025
11+ Deadline for Award applications
11+ Sport Assessments
11+ Music Assessments
11+ Drama Assessments
11+ Art Assessments
11+ New Award Holders announced
Wednesday 15 January 2025
Tuesday 21 January 2025 AM
Tuesday 21 January 2025 PM
Thursday 23 January 2025 AM
Thursday 23 January 2025 PM
Friday 7 February 2025
Internal candidates for 11+ academic Scholarships are invited to submit letters of application in the Michaelmas Term. Shortlisted candidates are interviewed and decisions announced in December.
13+ Deadline for Scholarship (external) and Award (internal and external) applications
13+ Sport Assessments
13+ Academic (external) and Music Assessments
13+ Academic (external) and Design and Technology Assessments
13+ Academic (external) and Drama Assessments
13+ Academic (external) and Art Assessments
Friday 31 January 2025
Tuesday 25 February 2025 AM
Tuesday 25 February 2025 PM
Wednesday 26 February 2025 AM
Thursday 27 February 2025 AM
Thursday 27 February 2025 PM
13+ New Scholarship (external) and Award Holders announced Friday 21 March 2025
16+ Deadline for Applications for Scholarship and Awards Monday 4 November 2024
16+ Sport and Music Assessments Tuesday 12 November 2024
16+ Design and Technology Assessments Wednesday 13 November 2024
16+ Art, Drama, and Academic Scholarship Assessments Thursday 14 November 2024
16+ New Scholarship and Award Holders announced Friday 29 November 2024
*Please note - External candidates are expected to include a letter of support from their current Headteacher with their application.
