SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS 11+, 13+ and 16+ 2027 - 2028 1
Scholarships and Awards Scholarships Awards Art Design and Technology Drama Music Sport Application and Assessment Dates Scholarships and Awards Summary Information 2
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SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS AT 11+, 13+ AND 16+ 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.
WHAT ARE ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS? Academic Scholarships are awarded to candidates who show sustained determination, ambition, rigour and a genuine sense of academic enquiry, all 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 with their peers, and to ‘give back’ to the school community in the form of presentations in assemblies, House groups and other forums. To be a Scholar is to be interested, always questioning and hungry for challenge.
HOW ARE SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED? Students do not apply for scholarships; potential candidates are identified and appointed via a process of quantitative assessment and qualitative judgement. Approximately 10% of each cohort are appointed as Academic Scholars.
First Form
There is no appointment in Michaelmas Term for First Form. This is to allow pupils to settle into the school, and for a track record of performance aptitude and attitude data to be acquired. In the second half of Michaelmas term, the Heads of Scholars, alongside the Deputy Head Academic, will identify prospective candidates on the basis of CAT4 and other baseline data. In line with the Award Holders process and schedule, First Form will be invited to an Assessment Day in January, during which they will be asked to sit a single general examination paper. Those you qualify are invited to a meeting to explore the expectations and duties of a Scholar. Those who wish to accept the role do so by writing to the Head of Scholars to indicate this choice. Appointments will be made upon review of all the data available. 3
Third and Fourth Forms Scholarships are awarded to Third and Fourth Form in the first half of the Michaelmas term, following a review of aptitude and attitude during the previous years. Aptitude will be measured in light of their end-of-year examination results and CAT4 or similar data. Attitude will be measured by reviewing Recommendation counts and any Academic Concerns. Heads of Year will be consulted as part of this process. No Scholarships are awarded in the Fifth Form but in most cases are carried over from Fourth Form. Lower Sixth/Upper Sixth Scholars are department based at Sixth Form level. At the start of the Lower Sixth in September, Scholars are identified on the basis of their previous external examination results at GCSE or equivalent. Scholars will be selected per Faculty or subject area and invited to join the programme as the ‘named Scholar’ representative for their area. Potential scholars are chosen by the Deputy Head (Academic) with the Heads of Department in September and subsequently invited to become ‘named Scholars.’ Departments will have sole responsibility for managing their Named Scholar experience. Sixth Form Scholars can be expected to be ambassadors for their subject. Examples of their ambassadorial duties might include, but are not limited to: • helping at Open Days •
assisting with the delivery of Discovery Lectures
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Acting as supervisors to the younger scholars on their on-going projects
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Leadership of Societies
The subject areas available for consideration will generally fall along Faculty-type lines, being: • Maths •
Experimental Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
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Social Sciences (Sociology, Psychology, Business Studies)
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Modern Languages
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Classical Languages
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Humanities (History, Geography, Economics)
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English (Literature; Language & Literature)
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Creative and Performing (Art, DT, Textiles, Music)
In doing so, we hope students will see this as an opportunity to start owning their academic journey, taking responsibility for their enrichment. No Scholarships are awarded in the Upper Sixth but the default will be that they are carried over from Lower Sixth.
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WHAT ARE THE THRESHOLDS FOR CONSIDERATION AS A SCHOLAR? Potential scholars will have achieved in the top 10% of end of year examination results, based upon an average across all examination results.
WHAT IS THE TENURE FOR SCHOLARSHIP? In the first two terms of each academic year, there is cycle of one-to-one review meetings with the Heads of Scholars, in which each Scholar must explore how he or she is meeting the expectations of Scholarship. Retaining a Scholarship depends on such expectations being met.
NAMED SCHOLARSHIPS: WHAT ARE THEY? 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, and is likely to be awarded to the highest ranking scholar on the basis of all examination results. •
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 end of 2F year assessment papers. Unlike all other academic scholars, the Trevis Scholar falls under the purview of the Head of Modern Languages.
THE 11+ ACADEMIC NAMED SCHOLARSHIP The Clarke Scholarship is awarded to a member of the Year Six in the Preparatory School following nomination from the Head of Prep School. It is awarded to the most outstanding candidate from the Cokethorpe Prep School. It is an honorary title, which recognises the achievements of that pupil by the end of their primary phase of schooling. It does not carry the formal role of scholarship into the Senior School.
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13+ ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT (EXTERNAL CANDIDATES) Scholarship Assessment for 13+ takes place over one day and aligns with the Award Holder application process. Subject Papers All external Academic Scholarship candidates are required to sit three subject papers of between 45-50 minutes each, alongside the Heads of Scholars’ General Paper. Compulsory Papers English Mathematics General Paper
Options (Select only one) Science Latin French History Geography
Assessment of Learning Attitudes and Mindset for External Candidates 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 will be by interview. Candidates may be given a data set, text or other source and asked to respond to it and follow up questions. The assessment may involve further individual or group problems solving activities which will provide candidates with various challenges and allow us to see how they respond.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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APPLICATION AND ASSESSMENT DATES 2027-2028 AGE STEP
DATE
11+
Deadline for Award applications
Wednesday 13 January 2027
11+
Sport Assessments
Tuesday 19 January 2027 AM
11+
Music Assessments
Tuesday 19 January 2027 PM
11+
Drama Assessments
Thursday 21 January 2027 AM
11+
Art Assessments
Thursday 21 January 2027 PM
11+
New Award Holders announced
Friday 5 February 2027
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
Friday 29 January 2027
13+
Sport Assessments
Tuesday 23 February 2027 AM
13+
Academic (external) and Music Assessments
Tuesday 23 February 2027 PM
13+
Academic (external) and Design and Technology Assessments
Wednesday 24 February 2027 AM
13+
Academic (external) and Drama Assessments
Thursday 25 February 2027 AM
13+
Academic (external) and Art Assessments
Thursday 25 February 2027 PM
13+
New Scholarship (external) and Award Holders announced
Friday 18 March 2027
16+
Deadline for Awards Applications
Monday 1 November 2026
16+
Sport and Music Assessments
Tuesday 10 November 2026
16+
Design and Technology Assessments
Wednesday 11 November 2026
16+
Art, Drama, and Academic Scholarship Assessments
Thursday 12 November 2026
16+
New Scholarship and Award Holders announced
Friday 27 November 2026
*Please note - External candidates are expected to include a letter of support from their current Headteacher with their application.
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COKETHORPE SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS – SUMMARY INFORMATION AGE CLASSIFICATON
MONETARY VALUE
DURATION
11+
Academic Scholarship
£300pa
2 years
11+
Award
£200pa
20 months
13+
Academic Scholarship
£300pa
3 years
13+
Award
£200pa
3 years
16+
Academic Scholarship
£300pa
2 years
16+
Award
£200pa
2 years
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Cokethorpe School, Witney, Oxon OX29 7PU admissions@cokethorpe.org 01993 703921 Registered Charity: 309 650 cokethorpe.org
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