Scholarships & Awards
Developing remarkable people
SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS
Contents
Introduction
About Berkhamsted School
Academic
Music
Art
Drama
Sports
How to apply
Scholarship enquiries
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 financial award for our Scholarships is usually the cost of extra tuition (where applicable), in addition to a fixed discount from the first terms fees on joining the School.
• Exhibitions may also be awarded. Please see further information in the Drama and Music sections.
• Where there is a demonstrated need, means-tested funding may be available to those awarded Scholarships, which can raise the value of the award.
• Scholarships and Exhibitions are only awarded on initial entry to Berkhamsted (from age 11+) and are not available to pupils already within the School. Pupils at the preparatory schools within the Berkhamsted Schools Group, however, are eligible for Scholarships and Exhibitions if 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 However, all Scholarships and Bursaries may be withdrawn if it becomes apparent through the scholarship review and monitoring process that the pupil to whom an award was made is not meeting scholarship expectations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…
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 Assessment and on their performance on the Holistic Assessment Day.
To apply for an Academic Scholarship at 16+ we will accept applications submitted on the website. Pupils are then invited to the Academic Scholarship in December based on their performance in the entrance assessment. Not all of those who apply for the award will be invited to the Academic Scholarship. If invited, pupils will be asked to sit papers based on two of the pupil’s chosen A level subjects. Pupils who are in Year 11 at Berkhamsted are not eligible to apply for a scholarship for Berkhamsted Sixth.
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 a fixed discount from the first terms fees on joining the 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.
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 only 13+
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 a fixed discount from the first terms fees and the cost of extra tuition on two instruments (including singing and music theory) if the lessons are taken in School. Additional means-tested funding is available to raise the value of the award (which needs to be identified on application), however, this will only be awarded in conjunction with a Scholarship.
A Music Exhibition provides free tuition on up to two instruments (which might include singing or music theory) if the lessons are 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.
Both Music Scholars and Exhibitioners are strongly encouraged to learn a ‘shortage’ instrument (i.e., one that may be considered endangered, as it is played by fewer people) to enable a wider variety of instrumental ensembles to flourish in the School and provide the music award holder with additional opportunities to perform. Shortage instruments include: organ, viola, cello, double bass, harp, bass guitar, orchestral percussion, trombone, French horn, tuba, oboe and bassoon. If an applicant would be keen to have lessons on one of these alongside their main instrument, there is an opportunity to express an interest in the application form which can be discussed further at interview.
WHAT WE EXPECT OF A MUSIC SCHOLAR
For entry at 11+ and 13+, it is expected that award holders will study Music to at least GCSE level. 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 at Berkhamsted. They will be required 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. 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 is not demonstrating continued commitment to the subject or making a significant contribution to the Music Department activities and events.
AGE TITLE
11+ Music Awards
METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Practical assessment through attendance of the Audition Day, comprising of:
• A prepared solo performance on the applicant’s strongest instrument/singing (3 minutes maximum). Accompanist will be provided.
• An unprepared singing workshop (in a group).
• Individual sight reading on main instrument/voice and aural tests appropriate to the level of the applicant.
• An interview with a member of the Music Department staff, including an unprepared demonstration of second instrument/voice, if applicable.
• A 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 of:
• A prepared solo performance on the applicant’s strongest instrument/singing (3 minutes maximum). Accompanist will be provided.
• An unprepared singing workshop (in a group).
• Individual sight reading on main instrument/voice and aural tests appropriate to the level of the applicant.
• An interview with a member of the Music Department staff, including an unprepared demonstration of second instrument/voice, if applicable.
• A personal statement with supporting portfolio of musical achievements.
INDICATORS OF SUITABILITY
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 of:
• A prepared solo performance on the applicant’s strongest instrument/singing (4 minutes as a guide). Accompanist will be provided.
• Individual sight reading on main instrument/voice and aural tests appropriate to the level of the applicant.
• An interview with a member of the Music Department staff, including an unprepared demonstration of second instrument/voice, if applicable.
• A 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 a fixed discount from the first terms 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.
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 with the Head of Art and complete 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
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 a fixed discount from the first terms fees and the cost of extra 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.
AGE TITLE METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
11+ Drama Awards
• 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 METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
13+ Drama Awards
• 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 3 or above (LAMDA or Trinity Guildhall)
AGE TITLE METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
16+ Drama Awards
• 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
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. There will be a chance to meet both the Director of Sport and Heads of Sport at the Scholarship Assessment.
WHAT IS THE SCHOLARSHIP WORTH?
The value of the Sports Scholarship is usually a fixed discount from the first terms fees. Additional meanstested 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 Katy Costin (Director of Sport) at KCostin@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 attitude and conduct or is not making a significant contribution to Sport in the School their scholarship may be withdrawn.
AGE TITLE
11+
13+
The Sports Scholarship
METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
• 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 Heads 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, & Rugby (Boys), Lacrosse & Netball (Girls) Girls may be assessed in Football (Y7+) and Cricket (Y12) in order to assess overall sporting and athletic potential. However, scholarships are not awarded to girls in those sports purely on their own.
How to Apply
If you would like to apply for any of our Scholarships, please submit the relevant application form 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 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
