Berkhamsted Scholarship & Awards 2022 Admissions

Scholarships & Awards

Developing remarkable people

Introduction

It is the Governors’ policy to award

Scholarships and Exhibitions on merit to pupils whom they wish to attract to Berkhamsted because of the contribution that they are able to make to School life, be that academic, musical, dramatic, sporting, artistic or as potential leaders.

• The Scholarship value will often be 10% of the tuition fees although higher awards may be granted.

• Exhibitions may also be awarded.

• Where there is a demonstrated need, means-tested funding may be available to those awarded Scholarships, which can raise the value of the award.

• The Incent Award is awarded to talented pupils who would not otherwise be able to afford to attend Berkhamsted; the award may be up to the full value of tuition fees and can also include extras such as school uniform, travel to and from school, and trips and expeditions.

• Scholarships and Exhibitions are only awarded on entry to Berkhamsted (from age 11+) and thus are not available to pupils within the School. Pupils at the preparatory schools within the Berkhamsted Schools Group, however, are eligible for Scholarships if applying for entry to the Senior Schools (Berkhamsted Girls and Berkhamsted Boys). Pupils who are in Year 11 at Berkhamsted are not eligible to apply for a scholarship for Berkhamsted Sixth.

Scholarships are awarded for the duration of the pupil’s time in the School. However, all Scholarships and Bursaries may be withdrawn if it becomes apparent through the scholarship review and monitoring process that the pupil to whom an award was made is not meeting scholarship expectations as set out in the expectations document that will be sent with any offer.

About Berkhamsted School

Berkhamsted School is one of Britain’s leading independent schools, with over 475 years of history and tradition.

It is a Day and Boarding School for boys and girls offering both single sex (from age 11 – 16) and co-educational teaching (ages 3 – 11 and 16 – 18). The School is affiliated to the HMC, GSA and IAPS.

SCHOOL STRUCTURE

Berkhamsted School has a ‘diamond’ structure that combines both single-sex and co-educational teaching. Boys and girls are taught together until the age of 11 (Berkhamsted Pre-Prep and Berkhamsted Prep), separately from 11-16 (Berkhamsted Boys and Berkhamsted Girls), before coming back together again in a joint Sixth Form (Berkhamsted Sixth).

The structure is a real strength of Berkhamsted. In the senior school, girls and boys are taught separately on different sites, but share in academic trips and visits and in many co-curricular activities, including the chamber choir, orchestras, drama, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the Combined Cadet Force.

At Berkhamsted, boys and girls are able to maintain an appropriate level of social contact that means it is possible to develop friendships with their peers across both parts of the senior school.

Inspiring new Sixth Form Centre… (Opening 2024)

The new Sixth Form Centre is a state-of-the-art building, created to meet your needs (in fact, previous Berkhamsted Sixth Formers were involved in its design).

Alongside a social space, entrepreneur section, and classroom-exam hall conversion, the Centre features a contemporary café with space for more than 150 students – the perfect place to meet for a latte during break-times or study periods.

Sustainability was a key factor in the design of this innovative new building, which also includes access to the landscaped Meadow Quad for fresh air and relaxation.

Above all, this is an inspiring new space to match your ambitions as a Berkhamsted Sixth Former.

Academic

ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS

are awarded on the basis of academic merit alone on entrance to the School.

WHO CAN APPLY?

For 11+ and 13+ pupils are invited for a further academic interview, based on their performance in the Entrance Assessments. Pupils will be invited for a further academic interview.

To apply for an Academic Scholarship at 16+ we will accept applications submitted on the website. Pupils are then invited to the Academic Scholarship based on their performance in the entrance assessment. Not all of those who apply for the award will be invited to the Academic Scholarship. Pupils who are in Year 11 at Berkhamsted are not eligible to apply for a scholarship for Berkhamsted Sixth. We will also invite pupils to sit academic papers in December, based on their performance in the entrance assessments. These papers will be based on two of the pupil’s chosen A level subjects.

The Peter Gibbs Science Scholarship is a meanstested Scholarship available for Sixth Form entry only. The Scholarship is offered to a talented pupil, from a financially or socially disadvantaged background, entering the school in the Sixth Form who is aspiring to study Science or Medicine at University. Pupils for this Scholarship must study at least one and preferably two, Science subjects at A Level e.g. Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Psychology

WHAT IS THE SCHOLARSHIP WORTH?

The value of the Academic Scholarship is usually I0% of the tuition fees although higher awards are sometimes offered. Additional means tested funding is available to raise the value of the award, which needs to be identified on application, however is only awarded in conjunction with a Scholarship.

WHAT WE EXPECT OF AN ACADEMIC SCHOLAR

Scholarships are awarded for the duration of the pupil’s time in the School. However, Scholarships are reviewed annually and may be withdrawn if it becomes apparent that the pupil to whom an award was made is not making a significant contribution to the academic life of the School or making the most of the opportunities available to him or her.

AGE TITLE 11+

The Major Open Scholarships Invitation only13+

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT Interview

AGE TITLE

16+

The Major Open Scholarships

Including the Peter Gibbs Scholarships Applications welcome and by invitation

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT Written Assessment

Music

WHO CAN APPLY?

Music scholarships, exhibitions and awards are given for musical ability to those who have attained the entrance criteria for the School. Pupils who are in Year 11 at Berkhamsted are not eligible to apply for a scholarship for Berkhamsted Sixth.

HOW DO I APPLY?

Registered pupils should complete the relevant application form on the School website, and provide any additional information requested. The Director of Music will be pleased to see prospective pupils or answer any enquiries.

Pupils are assessed by a combination of audition, interview and a personal statement. The practical audition will require participants to attend a full day’s workshop, where they will have the opportunity to participate in collaborative music making as well as perform a solo on their strongest instrument/voice in a concert setting.

WHAT IS THE SCHOLARSHIP WORTH?

The value of the Music Scholarship is usually 10% of the tuition fees and free tuition on two instruments (including Singing) and Music Theory lessons if the tuition is taken in School. Additional means tested funding is available to raise the value of the award, which needs to be identified on application, however is only awarded in conjunction with a Scholarship.

A Music Exhibition provides free tuition on up to two instruments (which might include Singing) and Music Theory lessons as long as the tuition is taken in School.*

Choral Awards and String Awards are also available for singers and string players at all levels of entry and are usually equivalent to the value of the Music Exhibition.

WHAT WE EXPECT OF A MUSIC SCHOLAR

For entry at 11+ and 13+, we would strongly encourage award holders to study Music to at least GCSE *. At 16+ entry, award holders will be expected to choose Music as one of their A level options. Award holders should be ambassadors for Music at Berkhamsted and are expected to make a full contribution to the musical life of the School throughout their time in the School. They will be expected to commit to various ensembles, relevant to their instrument(s), and to perform in concerts and events.

Music Awards are offered for the duration of the pupil’s time in the School. However, all award holders are mentored throughout the year by one of the music department staff and their progress encouraged and closely monitored. Through a structured annual review, awards may be withdrawn if it becomes apparent that the pupil to whom an award was made is not demonstrating continued commitment to the subject or making a significant contribution to Music Department activities and events.

* exceptions to this would need to be authorised by the Director of Music

AGE TITLE

Awards

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

Practical assessment through attendance of the Audition Day comprising:

• Prepared solo performance on strongest instrument/singing (3 mins max) Accompanist provided.

• Unprepared workshop performance on a second instrument/singing (in a group)

• Interview with the Music Dept

• Personal statement with supporting portfolio of musical achievements

INDICATORS OF SUITABILITY

Approaching Grade 4 standard or above on strongest instrument/voice.

Ensemble experience shown through commitment to musical activities in their school or outside.

AGE TITLE

13+ Music Awards

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

Practical assessment through attendance of the Audition Day comprising:

• Prepared solo performance on strongest instrument/singing (3 mins max) Accompanist provided.

• Unprepared workshop performance on a second instrument/singing (in a group)

• Interview with the Music Dept

• Personal statement with supporting portfolio of musical achievements

INDICATORS OF SUITABILITY

Year 9 2023:

Approaching Grade 6 standard or above on strongest instrument/voice. Year 9 2024:

Approaching Grade 5 standard or above on strongest instrument/voice.

AGE TITLE

16+ Music Awards

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

Practical assessment through attendance of the Audition Day comprising:

• Prepared solo performance on strongest instrument/singing (4 mins max) Accompanist provided.

• Unprepared workshop performance on a second instrument/singing (in a group)

• Interview with the Music Dept

• Personal statement with supporting portfolio of musical achievements

INDICATORS OF SUITABILITY

Approaching Grade 7 standard or above on strongest instrument/voice.

Ensemble experience shown through commitment to musical activities in their school or outside.

Art WHO CAN APPLY?

Art Scholarships are awarded for artistic and creative ability to those who have attained the entrance criteria for the School. This award is only available to Year 12 pupils joining the Sixth Form as an external pupils. Pupils who are in Year 11 at Berkhamsted cannot apply for a scholarship for Berkhamsted Sixth.

HOW DO I APPLY?

Registered pupils should complete the relevant application form on the School website, and provide any additional information requested. The Head of Art and Design will be pleased to see prospective pupils or answer any enquiries.

Pupils are assessed on the basis of the presentation of a Portfolio of work, a practical test and an interview with the Head of Art and Design.

WHAT IS THE SCHOLARSHIP WORTH?

The value of the Art Scholarship is usually 10% of the tuition fees with additional means-tested funding available on application to raise the value of the award. Additional means tested funding is available to raise the value of the award, which needs to be identified on application, however is only awarded in conjunction with a Scholarship.

WHAT WE EXPECT OF AN ART SCHOLAR

It is expected that the award holders will choose Art, Craft & Design as one of the subjects for A Level. Award holders should be ambassadors for Art who will make a full contribution to the artistic life of the School throughout their time in the School.

Scholars will be expected to attend the weekly club run by the resident artist and complete an independent art project in their own time each term.

Scholarships are awarded for the duration of the pupil’s time in the School.However, Scholarships are reviewed annually and may be withdrawn if it becomes apparent that the pupil to whom an award was made is not demonstrating continued commitment to the subject or making a significant contribution to Art in the School.

DRAMA SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS

Drama WHO CAN APPLY?

Drama Scholarships and Exhibitions are granted for commitment to and achievements in Drama to those who have attained the entrance criteria for the School. Pupils who are in Year 11 at Berkhamsted are not eligible to apply for a scholarship for Berkhamsted Sixth.

HOW DO I APPLY?

Registered pupils should complete the relevant application forms on the School website, and provide any additional information requested. The Director of Drama will be pleased to see prospective pupils or answer any enquiries. Pupils are assessed by a combination of audition, interview and personal statement. The practical audition will require pupils to perform a solo acting speech and participate in a group workshop. The choice of speech is entirely up to the pupil, but must be from a published play and be no longer than three minutes (11+) and four minutes (13+ and 16+).

WHAT IS THE SCHOLARSHIP WORTH?

The value of the Drama Scholarship is usually 10% of the tuition fees. Scholars are also eligible for free group Speech and Drama tuition in School. Additional means tested funding is available to raise the value of the award, which needs to be identified on application, however is only awarded in conjunction with a Scholarship.

The value of the Drama Exhibition is free group Speech and Drama tuition in School.

WHAT WE EXPECT OF A DRAMA SCHOLAR AND DRAMA EXHIBITIONER

For entry at 11+ and 13+, it is expected that award holders will study Drama to at least GCSE. At 16+ entry, scholars will be expected to choose Drama and Theatre Studies as one of their A level options. Award holders should be ambassadors for Drama who will make a full contribution to the dramatic life of the School throughout their time in the School.

Scholarships and Exhibitions are awarded for the duration of the pupil’s time in the School provided they demonstrate continued commitment to the academic subject and participation in co-curricular activities. They should also make satisfactory progress in Speech and Drama lessons (if taken).

Scholarships/Exhibitions are reviewed annually and may be withdrawn if expected behaviours and/or standards are not met.

DRAMA SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS

AGE TITLE

11+ Drama Awards

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

• Interview with the Drama Department

• Audition: performance of a solo speech

• Participation in a Drama Workshop

• Personal Statement outlining commitment to and achievements in Drama

INDICATORS OF SUITABILITY

• Significant roles in productions and/or

• Commitment to drama activities and/or

• Speech & Drama Exams (if studied - these are not a requirement): Grade 2 or above (LAMDA or Trinity-Guildhall)

AGE TITLE

13+ Drama Awards

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

• Interview with the Drama Department

• Audition: performance of a solo speech

• Participation in a Drama Workshop

• Personal Statement outlining commitment to and achievements in Drama

INDICATORS OF SUITABILITY

• Significant roles in productions and/or

• Commitment to drama activities and/or

• Speech & Drama Exams (if studied - these are not a requirement): Year 9 2023: Grade 4 or above (LAMDA or Trinity - Guildhall) Year 9 2024: Grade 3 or above (LAMDA or Trinity Guildhall)

AGE TITLE

16+ Drama Awards

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

• Interview with the Drama Department

• Audition: performance of a solo speech

• Participation in a Drama Workshop

• Personal Statement outlining commitment to and achievements in Drama

INDICATORS OF SUITABILITY

• Significant roles in productions and/or

• Commitment to drama activities and/or

• Speech & Drama Exams (if studied - these are not a requirement): Grade 7 or above (LAMDA or Trinity-Guildhall)

SPORT

Sport WHO CAN APPLY?

Sports Scholarships are awarded to pupils in recognition of sporting excellence, talent, and future potential. Pupils must have attained the entrance criteria for the School. Pupils who are in Year 11 at Berkhamsted are not eligible to apply for a scholarship for Berkhamsted Sixth.

HOW DO I APPLY?

Registered pupils should complete the relevant application form on the School website, and provide any additional information requested. Year 7 and 9 applicants are expected to be stand out performers in their current sporting environment and show potential in the school’s main representative sports. Year 12 applicants are expected to have representative experience or its equivalent at county level or above and provide evidence of commitment to school sport. The Director of Sport will invite successful pupils for an assessment day. Pupils are assessed on the basis of their Sport CV and a practical assessment. In addition, there will be a panel interview, which will include the Director of Sport.

WHAT IS THE SCHOLARSHIP WORTH?

The value of the Sports Scholarship is usually 10% of the tuition fees. Additional means tested funding is available to raise the value of the award, which needs to be identified on application, however is only awarded in conjunction with a Scholarship. If you would like to have a discussion about scholarship offers and financial support, please do contact Joanna Vila (Director of Sport) at JVila@Berkhamsted.com.

WHAT WE EXPECT OF A SPORTS SCHOLAR Award holders should be ambassadors for Sport who will make a full contribution to the sporting life of the School throughout their time in the School.

Scholarships are awarded for the duration of the pupil’s time in the School. Scholars are mentored throughout the duration of their scholarship and parents and scholars will receive regular updates on their progress. Scholarships are reviewed annually by the Director of Sport. If it becomes apparent that the pupil to whom an award was made is not meeting expectations in terms of performance, progress, attitude and conduct or is not making a significant contribution to Sport in the School their scholarship may be withdrawn.

AGE TITLE

The Sports Scholarship 13+

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

• Interview with the Director of Sport

Portfolio of sporting achievements

Practical Assessment

INDICATORS OF SUITABILITY

Stand out performer in current sporting environment and potential in the school’s main representative sports.

AGE TITLE

16+

The Sports Scholarship

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

• Interview with the Director of Sport

• Portfolio of sporting achievements

INDICATORS OF SUITABILITY

At least county representation or equivalent standard in one of the School’s main representative sports.

Berkhamsted School’s main representative sports are Cricket, Football, Lacrosse, Netball & Rugby

Incent Awards Incent Awards

are offered to high calibre talented pupils from financially or socially disadvantaged backgrounds.

1. They are awarded to enable talented pupils who would not otherwise be able to attend Berkhamsted, to afford to do so.

2. Pupils must demonstrate academic potential or have a particular talent(s) or skill(s) so that they will make a significant contribution to some area of School life. The pupil must clearly demonstrate the potential to reach scholarship level in whichever talent or skill is being assessed - by being awarded a scholarship in one of the following areas: Science, Academic, Art, Drama, Music or Sport - to be considered for an Incent Award. The Peter Gibbs Science Scholarship falls under this category.

3. The Award shall be up to 100% of the tuition fees, and, where appropriate, may also include financial assistance for the following areas:

• School uniform and sports kit

• Travel to and from school

• School trips and expeditions

• Extra lessons e.g. Music, Drama etc. if applicable

• Any financial assistance with the above is subject to approval by the Vice Principal

While most applications for Incent Awards will be received from pupils who are presently in maintained sector schools, Berkhamsted does work with a number of feeder schools in the independent sector who offer awards on a similar basis and therefore will consider applications from pupils who are presently in receipt of means-tested awards of this nature.

Incent Awards are given for the duration of the pupil’s time in the School. However, Incent Awards may be withdrawn if it becomes apparent that the pupil to whom an award was made is not making the most of the opportunities available to him or her.

AGE TITLE

The Incent Awards

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT Interview

Qualification by Entrance Assessment

Scholarship assessments in relevant area (Academic, Music, Drama, Sport)

AGE TITLE

The Incent Awards

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT Interview

Scholarship assessments in relevant area (Academic, Music, Science, Drama, Art, Sport)

How to Apply

If you would like to apply for any of our Scholarships, please submit the relevant application form (available on the website) together with the supporting information requested by the deadline which is published on the website.

Pupils must be registered for entry into the school, before the relevant deadline, in order to apply for a scholarship. Registration takes place by completing a registration form, and paying a registration fee.

In case of financial need, the value of Scholarships may be increased by the award of additional means-tested funding. Parents interested in applying for such funding should tick the required box on the Scholarship Application Form. We will then be in contact regarding the completion of a confidential statement of financial circumstances for consideration.

Scholarship enquiries

All enquiries related to Scholarships and Awards, requests for application forms and applications for additional funding should be directed in the first instance to the Admissions Department on the following contact details: Telephone: 01442 358001 E-mail: admissions@berkhamsted.com