Scholarships & Awards
11+ 13+ 16+
Introduction
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Academic
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All-Rounder
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Art & Design
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Choristership & Choral
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Design Technology
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Drama
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Music
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Sport
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Dean Close offers outstanding opportunities to its Scholars Dean Close is a truly co-educational School, with almost equal numbers of girls and boys. The School combines its founding traditional values and high academic standards with a modern approach and state-of-the-art buildings. Based on its strong Christian values and helped by impressive facilities, the School not only nurtures academic, sporting, artistic and musical talents, but also friendship, integrity and mutual respect. We value our Scholars highly, looking to all Award holders to enhance the School community. By their attitude as well as their actions they will enrich the life of the School. Because we believe that any true sense of achievement and enjoyment comes from on-going application, our Scholars’ lives should reflect both dedication and commitment as they give time and energy to their particular Award areas, without detracting from their involvement in other aspects of School. In this way, they become role models for their peers, whilst making the most of their talents.
Scholarships and Awards 11+ 13+ 16+ The School offers scholarships, exhibitions and bursaries to talented young people at ages 11 and 13 and for entry into the Sixth Form.
The areas of talent which are recognised for each age group are: 11+ entry
13+ entry
Sixth Form
Academic Music Sport
Awards made at 11+ carry on to the Senior School until such time as the pupil leaves Dean Close. Awards are subject to good behaviour, academic endeavour and a full commitment to the whole life of the School. They are rarely revoked or reduced; however, they are reviewed annually.
Art Design Technology Drama All-Rounder Choral
In line with all HMC and IAPS schools, awards of up to 40% of full fees can be made and these can be supported (up to a total award of 100%) by bursaries where financial need is demonstrated. The number of awards given in each category depends upon the calibre of the applicants.
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All scholarship candidates are required to pass the School’s entry exams.
A confidential headteacher’s report will be required for external pupils. The Headmaster’s decision on all scholarships and awards offered is final. 3
Academic Entrance at 11+, 13+ and 16+
Scholarships and Exhibitions are awarded annually according to academic excellence and perceived potential. Dean Close takes great pride in the success of its most academically able pupils, who set the standard for their peers. Academic award holders entering the School in Year 7 will normally be in top sets for all subjects. In Year 8 they are expected to join the scholarship set, where they will follow a separate scholarship programme leading to scholarship exams at age 13. This set is a small group of between 6 and 12 pupils who follow a challenging and enriching academic programme.
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In the Senior School there is a wide range of academic societies including the senior and junior Bowden Societies, specifically designed for the most able, providing stimulation, challenges and academic breadth. The School has a ‘Gifted and Talented’ programme designed to ensure that its most able Scholars are given every opportunity to reach their full potential throughout their time at Dean Close. There are a number of high level competitions and challenges organised by departments. Pupils may participate in the Physics and/or Maths Olympiad which are prestigious national and international competitions in which the School has had some very notable successes.
The European Youth Parliament is a simulated EU Parliament in which teams of eight take part in a series of debates on EU policy, a competition that Dean Close has reached the national finals in. The School’s own Public Speaking Competition, for both the junior and senior years, provides a platform to develop skills, as does the Latin and Greek reading competition. Modern linguists take part in the National Schools’ Languages Debating Competition. The School places a strong emphasis on inviting visitors to meet its Scholars. Over recent years, these have included historians David Starkey and Andrew Roberts, journalists Andrew Marr and Gavin Esler, authors Tom Holland, Robert MacFarlane and Mark Haddon, MPs William Hague, Lady Royall (Labour leader of the House of Lords) and many local MPs, and leading academics such as Professor Steve Hindle of Warwick University, and Professor Jenny March and Dr Steve Gunn both of Oxford University. Educational visits, including to the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, Battlefields and Classical tours to Sicily, Greece or Campania, serve to broaden the interest and experience of the more committed Scholars. Psychologists attend the Criminology Conference for Psychology which helps to raise Scholars’ understanding of the topic of Criminal Psychology and the professional applications of Psychology. The A level courses, along with several IGCSE courses, have been chosen because they are challenging, innovative and well-respected by universities. At least 10% of each year group apply to Oxford and Cambridge and over 50% of leavers go on to top ranking Russell Group universities. Award holders have an annual review to discuss and assess their academic contribution to the School. What is expected of a Scholar: n n
to maintain and extend their high standards of academic effort and performance serve as role models to other members of the School
11+ Scholarship Exams Candidates should be under 12 on 1st September. The examinations, which take place in January, are in English, Mathematics, Science and a general paper. Candidates are then involved in group challenges and discussions. They undertake interviews with the Headteachers and senior academic staff of both the Preparatory and Senior schools.
13+ Scholarship Exams Candidates should be under 14 on 1st September. The examinations, which take place in February, are the 13+ ISEB Common Scholarship Exams for which specimen papers are available from the ISEB. The timetable for the written examination is: Monday Tuesday Wednesday
Mathematics, Geography, English French, Science, History, Spanish Religious Studies, Latin
(The Latin Paper is not compulsory. A candidate cannot lose out by either taking it or not taking it but will gain if he or she does well in it.) Candidates from state schools are warmly encouraged to apply for academic scholarships. Families should contact the Admissions Tutor in the first instance to discuss what is involved.
Sixth Form Scholarship Exams The exams takes place in November and consists of papers in three subjects relating to those which the candidate intends to study at A level. There is also a Verbal Reasoning test and interviews with the Headmaster, Admissions Tutor and other senior academic staff.
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All-Rounder Entrance at 11+ and 13+
The School is looking for pupils of a good academic standard, but not necessarily quite to the same standards as for Academic Scholarship. Most importantly, All-Rounder Scholars are expected to contribute willingly to all areas of School life showing both participation and leadership. 11+ All-Rounder Scholars can be reclassified at age 13 in line with the pupil’s development, aptitudes and interests, ie. an 11+ All-Rounder may apply for a 13+ music, sport or academic scholarship.
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Colin Cocks Award
What is expected of a Scholar:
The Colin Cocks Award is available for entrance at 13+ to pupils who display a particularly good record of ‘service’ in addition to a high level of all-round ability. The Award is named after Colin Cocks, whose outstanding contribution as Chairman of Governors at Dean Close for nine years was marked both by wide-ranging talent and by an attitude of service to the community.
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to serve the School through service and responsibility according to age and as opportunities arise, acting as role models for other members of the School
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to maintain and extend their high standards of academic and extra-curricular effort and performance, participating fully in departmental activities according to their particular specialisms and talents
Successful applicants for Colin Cocks Awards are expected to have solid standards of academic ability and to offer at least two well developed skills outside the classroom at a high standard. However, it is the attitude and character of the applicant that is the most important consideration of all. Evidence of leadership ability and a willingness to serve the community will be taken into account.
11+ All-rounder Awards Candidates for All-Rounder Awards will also be invited to attend on one or two mornings of assessment which will include: n n n
exams: Verbal Reasoning, English, Mathematics interviews: with the Headmaster and other senior academic staff activities: one of the following – music and sport and then a second from the following: music, sport, art, DT and drama.
13+ All-Rounder Awards Candidates for All-Rounder Awards will be invited to attend one or two days of assessments which will include: n n n n
exams: Verbal Reasoning, English, Mathematics interviews: with the Headmaster and other senior academic staff practical assessments in two of the following: music, sport, art, drama, design technology and equestrianism discussion on their relevant interests and experiences with the respective Directors.
In addition, all 13+ candidates must submit a brief description (maximum 200 words) of ways in which they have already served and/or intend in the future to serve their communities, whether at school or elsewhere. This could include leadership responsibilities, organisation of events, involvement with charities or voluntary activities. The submission should be made in the form of a hand-written letter addressed to The Headmaster, Dean Close School.
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Art & Design Entrance at 11+, 13+ and 16+ Art is thriving subject at Dean Close which maintains a high profile, with work exhibited all around the School.
The Preparatory School Art Department aims to inspire, enthuse and give all pupils an interesting and creative experience where they can develop their knowledge, understanding and variety of skills. Pupils should be adventurous and experiment with a variety of media and processes. Sketchbooks are a vital part of independent learning and help to develop confidence and extend capabilities in the subject. The Art Department has two bright and airy rooms decorated with pupils’ work. It is well equipped with new ICT equipment, its own library of resource material and a kiln. Pupils wishing to be an 11+ Scholar must have an obvious passion and show a particular interest for the subject. They must be able to demonstrate their commitment, enthusiasm and potential whilst showing imagination and sound technical ability. 8
The Senior School has an exceptional two-storey Art School which provides a versatile and creative environment within which artists can immerse themselves and explore their talent and potential. Standards at Dean Close are consistently high thanks to the dedication and enthusiasm of the staff and Scholars alike and each year the Department sees many of its Scholars graduate with top grades. A good proportion go on to some of the country’s most acclaimed Art Schools including Central St Martin’s, Chelsea, Kingston and The Slade. The Art School’s BonBernard Gallery, in the entrance to the building, is also a major asset and, in recent years, has been the venue for a variety of excellent exhibitions. National and local professional artists, including
photographers, painters, sculptors and Old Decanians exhibit in the Gallery on a regular basis and, whenever possible, provide talks and practical workshops for Scholars. Most importantly, the Gallery also shows the work of Scholars. Field trips and excursions provide crucial stimulus with regular visits made to important London galleries and Art tours abroad, most recently to Rome. Candidates will be expected to show not only a strong level of technical skill, but also, and perhaps more importantly, an imaginative, enthusiastic and original approach to the subject which suggests great potential to develop in future years. Art teachers in the submitting schools are urged only to enter candidates who have a genuinely strong, natural aptitude and, therefore, a realistic chance of success in the scholarship. What is expected of an 11+ Scholar: n
to maintain an excellent work ethic, have a positive attitude and approach and set high standards for others to aspire to
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to work independently on their own projects, including using their sketchbooks
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to use the Art rooms regularly during lunchtimes to work on their own projects
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to assist with and support departmental events and competitions
What is expected of a 13+ Scholar:
11+ Scholarship Applications All external candidates will be asked to sit an English, Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning paper. Candidates will be required to produce a portfolio/body of work (including sketchbooks) which demonstrates a range of their abilities, experiences and achievements. Their portfolio should be a collection of work, using any media and produced over the past 12 months. Candidates will be invited to talk to the Head of Art about their work and they will be expected to show knowledge of particular artists/styles and have an opinion about their interests and future artistic career. There will also be a short practical session on the day.
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to maintain an excellent work ethic at all times and to achieve a consistently high standard of work
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to take Art to at least GCSE level
13+ and 16+ Scholarship Applications
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to act as role models for achievement and behaviour within their peer group while in the Art School
Candidates should complete an Art Scholarship Entry Form and submit it, with a CD containing 5 good examples of their work.
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to attend Art Club on a regular basis
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to be prepared to assist Art staff with tasks or activities upon their request
Successful candidates will be invited, with their portfolios, to the Art School where they will sit a 1½ hour observational drawing test and be interviewed by the Director of Art. Candidates will be expected to talk about their work with confidence and express their views and ideas about Art and artists in a convincing manner. Creativity, individuality and technical flair along with a commitment to and a passion for the subject should be clearly evident.
What is expected of a 16+ Scholar: n
to maintain an exceptional work ethic at all times and to achieve a consistently excellent standard of work
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to take A level Art
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to aim to be an inspiration to other pupils of all ages working within the Art School in terms of achievement and ambition
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to be available to assist the Director of Art and other department members whenever possible for various Art School activities and events (such as exhibitions, private views and Art Club) as requested
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to be available for specialist tours with prospective parents
13+ Portfolio: Should include 10 pieces of art work, of any media and preferably from the past 12 months, which have been carefully selected to show the candidate’s full range of skills, experiences and highest achievements. Sketchbooks are additional and considered essential. 16+ Portfolio: Should include no more than 15 pieces of art work, of any media and preferably from the past 12 months. Work should be a combination of school based GCSE projects and personally initiated work. At least two images should be based on observation. Work should show the candidate’s personal involvement through their ability to research, record, develop ideas, experiment and produce exciting and original realisations while demonstrating excellent technical ability and potential.
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Choristership and Choral Scholarship Entrance at 11+, 13+ and 16+
Simon Bell is the Director of Choral Music at Dean Close School and in this capacity directs the boys and men of Tewkesbury Abbey Schola Cantorum in the weekday services in Tewkesbury Abbey, and the Chapel and Chamber Choirs in the Senior School. Simon was previously Assistant Director of Music at Winchester Cathedral and also held posts at Southwell Minster, Westminster Abbey and St Albans Cathedral. Choristerships Choristerships in Schola Cantorum are open to boys between the ages of 7 and 13. Candidates should have a good musical ear, an enthusiasm for singing and a sense of fun. The candidates do not need to have a trained voice, but should have potential. They should be academically 10
able, with the ability to read the written word fluently. Successful candidates will become probationary choristers. They will also be encouraged to take up an instrument and to become fully integrated members of School, taking advantage of everything that a Dean Close education has to offer. The boys receive an excellent music and all-round education. They have the chance to perform with professional singers and orchestras in wonderful settings in the UK and further afield, and to receive a training which instils a sense of discipline, punctuality and team spirit. All choristers receive a scholarship of 25% and may apply for bursaries, both to the School and to various trust funds, for extra funding. All choristers receive free singing lessons.
What is expected of a Chorister: n
during term time, the Choristers sing Services as required in Tewkesbury Abbey (usually four evenings a week)
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to undertake tours, concerts and recordings. Some of these activities take place during the School holidays but sufficient notice is always given
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there are a few weekend commitments but unlike many other choir schools, choristers spend most weekends, Christmas and Easter at home
Peter Cairns Choral Scholarship A Peter Cairns Choral Scholarship is offered at age 13+ to a Chorister from a Cathedral or Collegiate School. All Peter Cairns Choral Scholars will receive free voice tuition and are members of the School Chapel Choir. The Chapel Choir is a vital and well-respected body within the School. It makes frequent CD recordings and sings Evensong in St Paul’s Cathedral and Tewkesbury Abbey each year, in addition to regular School Chapel services. Choir tours to Spain, Italy, Paris and New York within the past few years have provided the opportunity to perform in exciting venues further afield, including St Thomas Church, Fifth Avenue, St Mark’s, Venice and the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Paris. A strong tradition of Oxford and Cambridge organ and choral awards exists, with several Peter Cairns Choral Scholars having gone on to take up places in College choirs in recent years. What is expected of a Choral Scholar: n
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to be a member of Chapel Choir, setting an example to other choir members by taking a musical lead, being punctual for rehearsals and displaying enthusiasm and commitment to take an active role in Choral Society, undertaking duties to ensure the smooth running of rehearsals to be a member of Chamber Choir at the discretion of the Director of Choral Music to take on the duties of choir librarian as requested by the Director of Music at the discretion of the Director of Choral Music, Peter Cairns Choral Scholars may be asked, if appropriate, to sing with the Tewkesbury Abbey Schola Cantorum
Choristership Auditions The School auditions children for choristerships from age 7 to 10. n n n
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all external candidates will be asked to sit an English, Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning paper candidates will undertake a voice trial with the Choral Director candidates will need to bring a piece of music of their choice, which can be of any style they like; for example, a hymn or secular song if they play an instrument, they should bring a prepared piece of music to play they will be required to do some aural tests and will be required to sing a few scales. They will be given some simple exercises to explore their vocal range
Peter Cairns Choral Scholarships Choral auditions will include: n n
the singing of two contrasting pieces of the candidate’s own choice, and appropriate vocal exercises the playing of one piece on the second instrument (either orchestral or piano/organ)
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the playing of one piece on the third instrument (if offered)
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singing at sight
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aural tests
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interview with the Director of Music and the Director of Choral Music in which candidates will be expected to talk convincingly about their commitment to choral music and their particular enthusiasms general interview with the Headmaster and other senior academic staff
The Director of Music and the Director of Choral Music are happy to discuss scholarship details with parents and music teachers and would normally like to meet prospective candidates before the scholarship auditions.
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Design Technology Entrance at 11+, 13+ and 16+
Design Technology Awards are for candidates who demonstrate a lively interest in and commitment to the subject, as well as proven ability through a variety of media, ideas and approaches.
At Fifth Form (Year 11) those considering a career in engineering or design can apply for an External Scholarship through the Arkwright Scholarships Trust (Arkwright.org.uk) and if successful will receive a small bursary.
The Design Technology Department is located centrally in School. The workshop facilities are sizeable with a wide range of traditional tools and modern machinery allowing Scholars to work in a range of materials.
There are also opportunities for Scholars to pursue their own projects and ideas. The workshop is open often during the week, allowing them to work around other School or sports commitments. Scholars can enjoy a less formal approach to the subject during these sessions.
Recent investment in Computer Aided Manufacturing equipment has meant Scholars are able to experience hi-tech modern manufacturing techniques. A graphics suite contains a comprehensive ICT facility.
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Previous Design Technology Scholars have gone on to study engineering, design and architecture at Oxford, Cambridge and other top ranking Russell Group Universities.
What is expected of a Scholar: n
to contribute positively to curriculum lessons
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to take DT at least up to GCSE at 13+ and A level at 16+
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to achieve good assessment grades during curriculum lessons
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to achieve good grades in public examinations
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to commit to a proportional amount of co-curricular activities, including pursuing co-curricular personal projects
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to contribute positively to the department and act as an ambassador for the subject within School
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to help support departmental events such as taster days, visits and tours for appropriate guests
The Department is pleased to offer the opportunity of a Scholarship to applicants who show the following attributes: n
a keen interest in the areas of design and/or modern technology
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a working knowledge of designing, engineering and making of products or artefacts
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a working vocabulary of technical terms,
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understanding of tools, processes and materials
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an understanding of design in the wider world, including products or architecture
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an interest in pursuing the subject outside the curriculum
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specialist focus in areas of design or manufacture of products or artefacts
11+ Scholarship Applications All external candidates will be asked to sit an English, Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning paper. Candidates will be invited to attend a day of assessment which will include: n n n
portfolio presentation interviews with the Headmaster and the Head of Design and Technology a design and make test
Interview - During a 10 minute interview candidates will be judged on the interest in their technology work and how much they are aware of the way in which technology impacts on the modern world. Portfolio Presentation - candidates are required to bring evidence of past achievements in the form of past projects and drawings. Experience of a wide range of materials is beneficial.
13+ and 16+ Scholarship Applications Pupils will be expected to use the Design and Technology room regularly during lunch times to work on their projects.
Candidates will be required to provide an A3 portfolio of work undertaken during the last 12 months along with paper-based folio sheets, photographs or actual examples of any 3-dimensional work they may have done during the same period. This could include leaflets, posters or websites and should include evidence of school-based DT activities and co-curricular projects. Please note that ‘E’ portfolios should be forwarded well in advance of the interview, either in MS-Word or PDF formats to: ddevans@deanclose.org.uk During a 10 minute interview, candidates will be judged on the interest in their technology work and how much they are aware of the way in which technology impacts on the modern world. The examination for a Design Technology Award is in three parts: n n
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portfolio presentation interviews with the Headmaster and the Head of Design Technology in which candidates will be expected to talk convincingly about their commitment and enthusiasm for design technology a design test. Details are available six weeks in advance of the examination in order to allow for appropriate preparation for the examination
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Drama Entrance at 11+, 13+ and 16+
Being involved in Drama at Dean Close means being part of a vibrant community of enthusiastic teachers and pupils who love the theatre. Drama at the Prep School is a lively, exciting and thriving discipline, which aims to instil an appreciation and enjoyment of performance and communication thus maximising the potential of all pupils. There is a Dean Close 'house style' which is developed from the earliest years onwards, which helps with the transition to the Senior School. Prep School Drama Scholars are able to perform in the brand new Prep School theatre and further hone their
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performance skills in extra-curricular Speech and Drama lessons. Drama Scholars participate in the annual Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts and are entered for LAMDA Verse and Prose, Reading for Performance, as well as the Solo and Duologue Acting Graded Examinations. In the Senior School as many as 10 productions are mounted each year, aiming to offer Scholars a wide education of the best that is in the drama canon: Shakespeare, Miller, Tennessee Williams, Bennett, Stoppard (to name but a few) are at the core of what the School does. Dean Close believes strongly in stretching Scholars, not only in internal productions, but also in taking them to see the very best theatre available. Visits to the
RSC in Stratford and to Malvern and London are frequent. The School’s own theatre company, Close Up Theatre, plays in the Edinburgh Festival annually: for the last 10 years it has been awarded elite sell-out status. Sixth Formers direct several Studio productions each year, by invitation. There are visits, talks and masterclasses from outstanding actors each year; in recent years, Judi Dench, Sam West, Jeremy Irons, Nigel Havers, Jamie Parker, Julian Fellowes and Dominic West have visited. Great emphasis is placed on individual Speech and Drama lessons, and over 150 pupils take these, many to Diploma level, in LAMDA, RADA and Victoria College exam boards. The Cheltenham Arts Festival every year is a huge focus for large numbers of pupils who are extremely committed to a high level of performance and competitive energy. We place great importance on preparing Scholars for entry to drama schools. In the last six years, Sixth Formers have been offered places or scholarships at RADA, LAMDA, Central School of Speech & Drama, Mountview, Rose Bruford and at good universities and other specialist schools. Facilities are unrivalled: the Bacon Theatre (550 seats) provides superb and exciting facilities, with a huge stage and state-of-the-art technical equipment; the Tuckwell Outdoor Theatre seats 400 in a beautiful sylvan setting; the Drama Studio is used for smaller productions and teaching.
11+ Scholarship Applications All candidates should memorise and perform a poem of about 20 lines. They should also memorise and perform a monologue from a published play or adaptation from a published novel, two minutes in duration. In addition, candidates should prepare a prose reading of 2 minutes duration. The chosen material should contrast in mood and theme, allowing a range of emotional responses appropriate to the text. Candidates are asked to bring a typed copy of their audition pieces. Candidates will be required to n n n n
perform a reading from sight, which could be prose, verse or a play script discuss a play they have seen, NOT including West End musicals discuss a production they have been involved in discuss their interest in drama and theatre, giving details of their theatrical experience as a performer and theatre goer
Although not essential, candidates may bring in a low-key portfolio of drama achievements.
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to demonstrate an obvious enthusiasm for, and understanding of, theatre
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an ability to take direction, where chosen audition pieces will be discussed and alternative responses to the texts are suggested
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a standard of performance which demonstrates dramatic ability and intellectual understanding above and beyond the pupil’s age
What is expected of a 13+ Scholar: n
to take individual Speech and Drama lessons from a teacher in the Department
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to take GCSE Drama and A level Theatre Studies (usually)
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to show qualities of enthusiasm and motivation for drama in their peer groups and their Houses
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to demonstrate an appropriate and selfless attitude in the context of casting and participation
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to attend all performances of School, House and other drama, including all theatre trips where invited
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to be a strong presence in the Drama Studio and in the Bacon Theatre
Successful candidates are expected to take extra-curricular Speech and Drama lessons, to take and to demonstrate support for all drama activities and productions at Dean Close Preparatory School.
13+ Scholarship Applications All candidates will be required to prepare a speech from Shakespeare and a speech from a play by a major 20th or 21st century playwright, both of no fewer than 20 lines. The speeches should be learnt by heart and delivered as a performance. They will also expect to be interviewed about both plays, and be asked to consider different interpretations of the speeches by the Director of Drama. The session will also include a performance of an unseen passage. There will be a written paper of 45 minutes which will contain a choice of questions about their personal experience of performance – either ones they have given or seen. There will be an interview of 15 minutes with the Director of Drama in which candidates will be expected to talk convincingly about their commitment to theatre and their enthusiasms. While we realise that at this level, experience can be limited, we will expect some degree of knowledge and enthusiasm for theatre beyond West End musicals, and each candidate will be expected to have read and seen at least one play by Shakespeare; they will be asked about all aspects of the performance, for example, the acting, the set, the design. Interviews with the Headmaster and other senior academic staff.
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Music Entrance at 11+, 13+ and 16+
Scholars at 11+ will join Dean Close Preparatory School which has a recently renovated, well-equipped and dedicated Music School in which the Director of Music is supported by a large group of full-time and peripatetic teachers. The Music Department aims to nurture, inspire and enable all budding musicians at whatever stage they are. Music Scholars, in particular, are expected to participate in chamber music, as well as the many musical ensembles that take place during the week. Scholars have access to a team of well-qualified and experienced musicians, many of whom are professional performers in their own right, who are able to accompany, coach and mentor. The internationally renowned Carducci Quartet are Head of Strings across the Dean Close schools. 11+ entrants should possess an innate musical ability together with a promising level of technical accomplishment. The School is looking for children with potential who have made the most of opportunities they have been given to date, rather than for advanced examination grades. Music Scholars need to have a genuine love of music and the determination to work hard at developing their musical abilities in order to achieve their full potential. Scholars at 13+ and 16+ will join the Senior School which boasts its own exciting modern Music School; a purpose-built facility which accommodates every amenity from a hi-tech recording studio to an elegant concert hall. Entrants at 13+ should be at least Grade 5+ or equivalent in their first instrument and entrants at 16+ should be at least Grade 8 level. Unparalleled performing opportunities are on offer; the Department stages in excess of 50 concerts each year, ranging from informal lunchtime recitals to major choral and orchestral events, with top music Scholars being given the chance to perform concertos with the orchestra. Recent performances include Elgar’s Cello Concerto, Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto no.2, Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor and The Lark Ascending by Vaughan 16
Williams. Recent Choral Society performances include Bach’s St Matthew Passion, Mozart’s Requiem and Verdi’s Requiem. The Chapel Choir makes frequent CD recordings and sings Evensong in St Paul’s Cathedral and Tewkesbury Abbey each year, in addition to regular School Chapel services. Choir tours to Northern France, the Veneto and Tuscany, Bavaria, Barcelona and New York within the past few years have provided the opportunity to sing in exciting venues further afield. A strong tradition of Oxford and Cambridge organ and choral awards exists, as well as places at top conservatoires. Scholars are encouraged to join the National Youth Orchestra, National Youth Choirs and other courses during the school holidays. Internal competitions are held annually and chamber groups participate in the National Chamber Music Competition. Those winning music scholarships and exhibitions (which may include both choral and organ awards) qualify for free tuition on a specified number of instruments and free participation in professional masterclasses and consultation lessons approved by the Director of Music. A considerable number of top music Scholars go on to become professional musicians, as performers, teachers or in the recording industry.
11+ Scholarship Exams Scholars usually offer two instruments, at least one to a standard of Grade 3 Associated Board, although it is not necessary for the candidate to be examined at that level. All candidates are encouraged to pay an informal visit to the Director of Music prior to the Music Scholarship day, so that they can play and sing in a relaxed atmosphere and chat about the Music Scholarship day itself. Candidates will be invited to attend two mornings of assessment which will include a morning of written work including a Verbal Reasoning paper and 11+ entry examinations in English and Mathematics. A Music day when they will be expected to n n n n
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play two contrasting pieces on their first instrument play at least one piece on second and subsequent instruments undertake basic aural tests work in a choral and / or instrumental ensemble with other candidates to demonstrate sight-reading and musicianship skills, as well as teamwork and musical knowledge have an interview with the Directors of Music from the Preparatory and Senior schools and with the Headmaster
13+ Scholarship Exams
What is expected of an 11+ Scholar: n
to include daily music practice in their routine, and to keep a record of all such practice
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to participate in at least one ensemble for each instrument studied where timetabling allows, as well as Senior Choir and music theory classes until Grade 5 theory is attained. Attendance at rehearsals and classes should be consistent, and Scholars are expected to act as role models for their peers and for younger pupils
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to seize performance opportunities as often as possible, and to perform solo or chamber music at least once a term
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to be particularly conscientious about attending individual music lessons punctually
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to take some responsibility for their own musical development
Auditions take place annually in February and are designed to discover potential as well as test actual performance. Candidates usually offer two instruments, at least one to a standard higher than Grade 5 Associated Board, although it is not necessary for the candidate to be examined at that level. An ability to sing will be taken into consideration and special encouragement is given to Choristers as the Peter Cairns Choral Scholarship is offered each year (see Chorister Scholarships).
Sixth Form Scholarship Exams Auditions take place annually in November and are designed to discover potential as well as test actual performance. Candidates usually offer two instruments, at least one to Grade 8 standard, but single instrumentalists are also encouraged to apply. Both 13+ and Sixth Form auditions will include: n
playing two contrasting pieces of the candidate’s own choice, and the appropriate scales etc.. on the first instrument
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the playing of one piece on the second instrument
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playing at sight
What is expected of a 13+ and 16+ Scholar:
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aural tests
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to demonstrate a desire to improve as a musician through consistent and significant practice
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to support the Music Department’s wide range of activities on offer through participation in and attendance at concerts, masterclasses and other musical events
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to be a member of Chapel Choir, Choral Society and other musical activities as considered appropriate by the Director of Music
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to be a presence in the Music School, setting an example to others by displaying enthusiasm and commitment
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interview with the Director of Music in which candidates will be expected to talk convincingly about their commitment to music and their particular enthusiasms general interview with the Headmaster and other senior academic staff
Carducci Scholarship Awarded to a string player of exceptional ability. The Director of Music is happy to discuss scholarship details with parents and music teachers and would normally like to meet prospective candidates before the scholarship auditions.
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Sport Entrance at 11+, 13+ and 16+
The Sports Scholarship programme aims to foster the development of a Scholar’s athletic potential through a programme designed specifically for the individual, to support and monitor preparation, progression and performance during their time at Dean Close. Award holders are supported by a team of highly qualified and experienced educationalists and fitness practitioners who work alongside them providing guidance, advice, support and the opportunities to achieve their true athletic potential. To assist in the Scholars’ development, the School has a long tradition of regular major oversees tours. Many teams are currently representing the School at county, regional and national level in a wide variety of sports. Several Scholars 18
and recent alumni are competing at international level, excelling in sports such as hockey, squash, netball, water polo, rugby and three-day eventing. The wealth of state-of-the-art sporting facilities includes a recently built sports hall with indoor cricket nets, hi-tech fitness suite and dance/exercise studio. Other facilities include two high spec floodlit astroturf pitches complete with watering system, a 25m indoor pool, squash courts, an indoor rifle range and climbing wall. The teaching team is enhanced by a number of top-level professional coaches who assist with cricket, tennis, netball, hockey, swimming and rugby.
This award is offered to pupils with good athletic potential who would benefit from the opportunities, facilities and coaching that the School provides. Within the award the School is seeking pupils who possess all-round physical ability in areas such as speed, balance, stamina, agility and co-ordination, and who show talents in specific areas of physical education and games.
11+ Sports Awards All external candidates will be asked to sit an English, Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning paper. Each candidate must offer one chosen sport from the following list: rugby, hockey, cricket for boys; hockey, netball and tennis for girls. Candidates may offer alternative sports but only following agreement from the Director of Sport.
What is expected of a Scholar:
Applicants should:
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to act as role models and leaders on and off the field within their year groups and in the wider School, around whom teams can be built
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to set high standards for themselves and their peer group
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to work to the best of their ability with effort and determination at all times
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to behave according to the School’s Code of Conduct
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attendance and commitment to all School training and fixtures
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to work with a positive attitude towards achieving identified, challenging and realistic goals
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to share best practice with peers and fellow athletes
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to assist best practice with coaches, teachers and practitioners
provide at least one reference from a relevant individual, eg. County coach, PE teacher, club coach etc giving details of skills, achievements and potential of the candidate for their major sport
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provide a confidential Headteacher’s report
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support their application with evidence of past achievements
13+ and Sixth Form Awards Sports awards are applied for by the presentation of a brief sports CV (one side of A4) that must indicate all-round sporting ability and commitment at school level, with at least one achievement at or above county level. One reference is required from a relevant individual, eg county coach, PE teacher, club coach etc.. giving details of skills, achievements and potential of the candidate for their major sport. These are considered by the Director of Sport and the Headmaster. 11+, 13+ and 16+ Award candidates will be invited to attend a day of assessment. Conditioning assessments n
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Specialist sports assessment: each individual will take part in one sport at 11+ entry and two sports at 13+ and 16+ entry, selected from the following list: rugby, hockey, netball, cricket, tennis, athletics, swimming, basketball, squash or other sport if approved in advance by the Headmaster and Director of Sport. Assessment will be based on a mix skills testing and performance within a general game playing scenario Interview with the Director of Sport and other members of the Sports Department in which candidates will be expected to talk convincingly about their commitment to sport and their enthusiasms General interview with the Headmaster and other senior members of academic staff
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How to apply
Dean Close Preparatory School 7+ 11+
Dean Close School 13+ 16+
Rebecca Chaplin Head of Admissions Dean Close Preparatory School Lansdown Road Cheltenham GL51 6QS Telephone: 01242 258001 Email: rchaplin@deanclose.org.uk
Sarah Smith Registrar Dean Close School Shelburne Road Cheltenham GL51 6HE Telephone: 01242 258044 Email: registrar@deanclose.org.uk
HathaGraphics Ltd. 01558 668069
If you would like to know more about the Scholarships on offer at Dean Close School, or would like to apply, please contact: