Sixth Form scholarships S i x t h Fo r m - S e p t e m b e r 2 027 e n t r y
HABS SIXTH FORM
Introduction Dear prospective Habs scholar, Our purpose at Habs is to ensure that every student who comes through our school is empowered to be able to make a profound impact in the world. We want all our students to have the capacity to lead and to make a positive difference.
This level of ambition runs through our whole philosophy. As a highly selective school many of our students are considered gifted in most contexts, so our approach to teaching and learning is academically ambitious for all our students; we expect that all our students will be challenged above and beyond any exam curriculum. We encourage our students to think hard and we nurture intellectual curiosity, all of which enables students not just to excel in exams and achieve their higher education goals, but also to develop an enduring love of learning. We have a range of specialist scholarships available at Year 12 (16+), as well as Research scholarships for both prospective and current students. Our scholarship programme is inclusive. Whilst it offers the stretch and opportunity for our scholars to advance their passions and interests, much on offer is also available to all our students; we do not see scholarship as constrained to only those who are named as scholars.
2
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
However, we have extremely high expectations of our scholars and we support them in playing an exciting leading role in our school. As role models to our other students, our scholars help drive the level of ambition and curiosity in their subjects, have courage to challenge themselves and struggle with new ideas, and importantly they enjoy sharing their knowledge, passion and skills to help support and develop their school community.
MR ROBERT SYKES HEADMASTER
A Habs scholar is also expected to maintain a range of other interests and demonstrate full commitment to school life in the broadest sense. We award specialist scholarships to students who show the capacity to excel and to lead in their chosen specialist area. We look forward to discussing this with you further and we wish you the very best of luck.
DR HAZEL BAGWORTH-MANN HEADMISTRESS
3
HABS SIXTH FORM
The programme summary What is scholarship at Habs? Community – A scholar is committed to sharing their knowledge, skills and understanding and is eager to engage with others in developing these further, demonstrating collaboration in working effectively with others, care in supporting and valuing those around them, and social responsibility in using their talents and knowledge to make a positive contribution to their community.
Scholarship at Habs combines key academic and personal attributes which reflect our overall values and habits, the guiding principles that help our students find their direction, shape their own path and grow with confidence, purpose and character. Ambition – A scholar has the ambition to take their work to the highest level possible, demonstrating initiative in seeking new opportunities, resilience when faced with challenge, and a commitment to continuous learning as they strive to grow and improve.
We believe all our students should try their best to display these attributes consistently throughout their time at Habs, which is why much of our scholarship programme is available to all our students.
Curiosity – A scholar is deeply curious and will take and make opportunities to explore their interests further. They demonstrate openmindedness by considering new perspectives, critical thinking by questioning and analysing ideas, and creativity by making connections, solving problems and generating innovative approaches to their learning.
Those students who demonstrate these attributes, and do so to the highest level consistently through their school career, will be recognised formally as scholars.
Courage – A scholar is courageous in seeking to go beyond their current understanding, challenging themselves to overcome preconceptions and develop their thinking, demonstrating integrity in their pursuit of knowledge, leadership in inspiring and supporting others, and risk-taking in embracing new ideas, perspectives and challenges. 4
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
Our scholarships We have extremely high expectations of our scholars and they play an exciting leading role in our school. We expect our scholars to consistently display the Habs scholarship attributes and be a role model to other students in reflecting these values amongst the school community. Senior scholars are expected to play a leading role in Habs by delivering talks, running events and societies and inviting speakers. They will have courage to challenge themselves and regularly enjoy sharing their knowledge, passion and skills, having a positive impact on the school community. The following scholarships are available in the Sixth Form: Research, Art, Drama, Design and Technology, Music and Sport. All assessment details can be found in this booklet.
All current Year 11 students holding a scholarship moving up into the Sixth Form, will retain their scholarship (and associated fee remission) subject to the Terms and Conditions of their original award.
Applicants are advised to apply for no more than one specialist scholarship. All external applicants are automatically considered for an Academic scholarship.
The Research Proposal submission deadline is Friday 6 November 2026. The deadline for all other scholarship applications is Monday 19 October 2026.
The number and type of scholarships awarded each year will be at the School’s discretion and information can be found in our Admissions Policy which is available on our website.
5
HABS SIXTH FORM
Research scholarship Research scholars will:
We are delighted to introduce a new scholarship for the Sixth Form. The research scholarship celebrates and supports students who demonstrate exceptional intellectual curiosity and leadership through academic research. It is designed for those who seek to push boundaries, explore original ideas, and contribute meaningfully to our scholarly community at Habs The scholarship is designed to give intellectually driven Sixth Form students the opportunity to deepen their academic passions, gain recognition for their intellectual leadership, and contribute to academic excellence at Habs.
•
Study the relevant subject at A-level and show sustained engagement (through competitions, societies, independent reading).
•
Demonstrate the Habs values through their academic goals, peer support, willingness to tackle challenging questions, and independent exploration.
• Lead or co-lead academic societies, mentor younger students, and share their research through talks, articles, or podcasts. • Complete a substantial research project during the Sixth Form, supported by a mentor and a structured programme of supervision.
Successful applicants will begin their research journey with the support of a mentor and a structured programme, culminating in a final presentation or publication.
What is the value of a Research scholarship? The value of the scholarship is discretionary. Sixth Form Scholarships are held for the duration of a student’s time at the school, subject to the complete a substantial research project.
6
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
7
HABS SIXTH FORM
Research scholarship Successful proposals will demonstrate: 4. Planning and timeline
1. Originality and ambition
• Include a clear and logical timeline, broken into stages or milestones.
• Pose a clear, focused, and academically meaningful question.
• Show evidence of forward planning and time management.
• Demonstrate originality, through a novel topic, a unique angle of an existing topic, or an interdisciplinary question.
• Reflect an understanding of how the project will evolve over time.
2. Evidence of independent thought
5. Depth and breadth of wider reading
• Reflect the student’s approach to the topic through personal insight or a unique perspective.
• Demonstrate engagement with a range of relevant academic sources.
• Show evidence of independent exploration of the topic.
• Include a well-structured bibliography that reflects both depth (specialist texts) and breadth (contextual readings).
• Thinking critically about the topic. 3. Clarity and feasibility of methodology
• Clearly explain how the research will be carried out, including methods of investigation, analysis, or data collection. • Awareness of potential challenges and suggest how they might be addressed.
8
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
How to apply Application criteria/requirements: •
Students must study the relevant A Level linked to their research project.
•
Students must complete a substantial research project during the Sixth Form, supported by a mentor and a structured programme of supervision.
S TA G E 1
S TA G E 2
Research scholarships are only available to students entering the Sixth Form.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an assessment day, including a viva-style discussion exploring their proposal, subject passion, critical thinking, and alignment with Habs values.
Applicants must submit a 1-2 page proposal including: •
Introduction and rationale
•
Initial research question
•
Aims and objectives
•
Methodology (sources, approaches, fieldwork)
•
Timeline across the Sixth Form
•
Initial bibliography
Interviews will take place in late November and offers will be emailed on 2 December 2026.
RESEARCH PROPOSAL TO BE SUBMITTED BY 6 NOVEMBER 2026, VIA EMAIL TO:
Ms Sophie Pereira at spereira@habselstree.org.uk (Boys’ School) and admissionsboys@habselstree.org.uk or Mrs Sue Bourke sbourke@habselstree.org.uk (Girls’ School) and admissionsgirls@habselstree.org.uk
9
HABS SIXTH FORM
Art scholarship The Art Departments What you can expect to experience:
At Habs, we value and nurture all creative minds. Our Sixth Form Art scholars are not only highly skilled and intellectually curious, but they are also central figures in the creative life of the school; driving artistic ambition, sharing knowledge with others, and helping to shape the department’s vibrant, collaborative culture. It is essential our Scholars are true ambassadors for Art & Design. We are fortunate to have a wonderfully well equipped art department with a team of talented artists who are committed to encouraging and inspiring our students to make extraordinary art. Day to day, the department is always open; our art department provides students with the opportunity to work with a vast range of media. We allow students to make their own choices and to use as much of our specialist equipment as they aspire to. We believe giving students the freedom to make their own choices allows them to take ownership of their own pathway.
•
Housed in large, light-filled studios with specialist facilities for ceramics, sculpture, painting, textiles, photography, digital drawing, and animation.
•
Access to professional software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Procreate, as well as traditional materials including oil paint, clay, and fabric.
•
Expert teaching staff with individual specialisms who provide personalised guidance and technical support.
•
Small class sizes allowing for tailored critique, discussion, and one-toone support.
•
A Level Art, Craft & Design that encourages conceptual depth, experimentation, and a refined personal portfolio.
There are many creative opportunities for our scholars, including the opportunity to:
10
•
Lead and contribute to whole school assemblies with a creative focus.
•
Take part in specialist extended projects.
•
Attend special gallery and museum trips.
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
11
HABS SIXTH FORM
Art scholarship What we are looking for in an Art scholar Sixth Form Art scholars are:
We are looking for passionate young artists with the potential to grow into thoughtful, articulate, and independent creatives. Our scholars demonstrate curiosity, technical development, and personal voice across a wide range of media and ideas. They are encouraged to take risks, work ambitiously, and engage critically with the world around them through their art. Art scholars play a vital role in the department not just through their own engagement, but by encouraging other students to take part in the many activities we run in our thriving department. Our scholars inspire us with their passion and ambition for the subject, taking advantage of the wide range of specialisms offered within the department and developing their knowledge and techniques outside of school through visits to exhibitions and their own research projects. We are looking for eagerness to master the craft of being a young artist rather than a finished product.
•
Are self-motivated and show clear commitment to developing their artistic voice.
•
Pursue independent and collaborative projects beyond the curriculum.
•
Lead by example, mentoring younger students and contributing to exhibitions and school events.
•
Actively participate in enrichment opportunities including national competitions, gallery trips, and artist-led workshops.
•
Embrace challenge, exploration, and reflective thinking in their creative journey.
What is the value of an Art scholarship? The value of a scholarship is usually between 10-15% of school fees (but can be up to a maximum of 25% in very exceptional circumstances). Sixth Form Scholarships are held for the duration of a student’s time at the school, subject to sustained levels of progress, participation and performance.
Scholars are expected to make full use of the opportunities open to the school community, such as visiting artist workshops, trips and open studios and are encouraged to enter external competitions and to exhibit their work around school.
12
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
How to apply Application criteria/requirements: • •
We welcome applications from students who are predicted a grade 9 at GCSE in Art, Textiles, 3D Design or similar (an 8 will be considered in exceptional circumstances). Applicant must study A Level Art.
S TA G E 1
S TA G E 2
Art Scholarships are available to students entering the Sixth Form, based on both academic ability and artistic potential. Applicants are required to submit a portfolio of personal work (up to 20 pieces) demonstrating a range of media, ideas, and development.
After the entrance assessment, the Head of Art will select students, from those who have reached the required academic standard (external students only) and demonstrated their potential as an art scholar to be invited for an interview. Current Habs students will be selected for interview at the same time.
We are not seeking a finished product, but rather students who are eager to grow, who can reflect, experiment, and contribute richly to the creative spirit of Habs. Portfolios will form the basis of a discussion at interview.
During the interview, students will have the opportunity to discuss their work. They should attend with their physical portfolio although large scale pieces which are difficult to transport can be presented through photographs. In addition, students will undertake a short practical task.
Applicants must also provide evidence of participation in competitions / gallery trips / artist-led workshops / attending artist talks. •
All applicants must complete the girls scholarship application form or the boys scholarship application form (found in the Admissions section of each website under scholarships).
•
Portfolios must uploaded into the application form (25MB max).
•
Evidence of achievement: predicted grade data.
•
External students - references must be included in the application form (art teacher). For current Habs students, we do not require references.
Interviews will take place in November and offers will be emailed on 2 December 2026.
13
HABS SIXTH FORM
Design and Technology scholarship Design and Technology Department The department offers a range of exciting opportunities to develop students beyond the constraints of the curriculum and our cocurricular teams regularly qualify for the final stages in national and international competitions.
The Design and Technology departments at Habs Girls and Habs Boys are both ambitious, forward-facing departments in the school. We are fortunate to employ a skilled team of engineers and designers who are friendly and enjoy open discussion and innovation. We are always keen to respond to individual interests and enthusiasms. Colleagues enjoy considerable flexibility and room for initiative, with a measure of delegated responsibility. The department has a long established reputation of achieving excellent results at GCSE and A Level.
Our current offering includes Vex robotics (We were crowned world champions in the Excellence Award at the 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship – the highest accolade in the world’s largest school robotics competition), F1 in Schools, safe cracking and Greenpower racing, alongside our aerospace society and automotive societies. In addition to the numerous competitions and societies, students are regularly awarded the prestigious Arkwright scholarship for their potential to become one of the leaders of the engineering field.
Our department specialises in well engineered, creative solutions to real world problems and students can work with a range of materials that access the full suite of tools and thinking skills. The department is well resourced and enjoys the use of modern manufacturing approaches such as waterjet cutting, 3D Printing and use of other CNC equipment, amongst the more traditional tools and equipment.
14
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
15
HABS SIXTH FORM
Design and Technology scholarship What we are looking for in a Design and Technology scholar We are looking for students who demonstrate:
Design and Technology scholars play a vital role in the department and will be expected to look for opportunities to not only promote and enjoy our current offering, but also to develop life in the department by looking for new opportunities that can be explored in the Design and Technology department. For example, this may be looking for new competitions which might mirror the department’s ethos and values or launching a new academic society that engages and enthuses students in the study of Design and Technology, or in raising standards and expectations with the high quality of work produced.
16
•
A genuine interest in the world around them and a desire to know more about how things work, or how they might be improved.
•
The ability to break up complex problems to see the smaller stages involved in problem solving and to construct creative solutions.
•
The ability to work with others in both a leadership position and as part of a broader team.
•
An interest in taking a leading role in the life of the DT Department and to look for opportunities to promote the work in both lessons and Co-curricular.
•
An approach where they want to develop what they see and pursue their own projects both in and out of school time.
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
How to apply Application criteria/requirements: •
Applicant must study A Level Design and Technology.
S TA G E 1
S TA G E 2
Applicants should also submit a portfolio of selected pieces in a simply presented digitalised format to the design and technology department for review. We will be looking at potential rather than expecting highly finished work and welcome “work in progress” as part of the submission. The portfolio should demonstrate activities students have undertaken in their own time and might include: products made from woods, metals, plastics or modelling materials, sketches and notes where students have developed their creative ideas to produce, design work that demonstrates their creative flair and/ or written account of activities which demonstrate their wider interest in the way things work.
After the entrance assessment, the Head of Design and Technology will select students from those who have reached the required academic standard (external students only) and demonstrated their potential as a Design and Technology scholar, to be invited for an audition. Current Habs students will be selected for interview at the same time.
•
All applicants must complete the girls scholarship application form or the boys scholarship application form (found in the Admissions section of each website under scholarships).
•
Portfolios must uploaded into the application form (25MB max).
•
External students - references must be included in the application (D&T teacher). For current Habs students, we do not require references.
During the interview applicants will be asked to talk through their previously submitted portfolio. They will also be asked to respond to a design problem-based question to evaluate their problem-solving skills. Interviews will take place in November and offers will be emailed on 2 December 2026.
What is the value of a Design and Technology scholarship? The value of a scholarship is usually between 10-15% of school fees (but can be up to a maximum of 25% in very exceptional circumstances). Sixth Form Scholarships are held for the duration of a student’s time at the school, subject to sustained levels of progress, participation and performance.
17
HABS SIXTH FORM
Drama scholarship The Drama Department The Drama departments of Habs Girls and Habs Boys work both independently and in close collaboration to offer one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking theatrical programmes in the country. Overseen by highly experienced teachers alongside directors and associates working within the industry, we aim to redefine traditional school practice to make bold, high-quality and transformative theatre in line with the UK’s other leading Youth Theatre companies.
Each year, the departments produce an ambitious and diverse programme of work. From large-scale productions and studio performances to student-led projects and collaborations with professional artists, students are encouraged to explore a wide range of theatrical styles and genres. Productions include classical texts, new writing, devised theatre, and adaptations of novels and graphic fiction. Many students also participate in prestigious events such as the Coram Shakespeare Schools Festival and local theatre competitions. Students often achieve success in NYT auditions and go on to perform with the National Youth Theatre.
Together, they provide a rich and inclusive environment where students are empowered to become confident performers, imaginative storytellers, and thoughtful theatre-makers.
The departments are led by experienced educators and industry professionals who inspire students to take creative risks, develop their own artistic voices, and engage deeply with the process of theatre-making. Workshops with leading theatre-makers, movement directors, and writers, as well as regular trips to venues such as the Barbican and the National Theatre, further enrich the student experience.
Drama is a vital part of life at Habs, both academically and co-curricularly. Students are encouraged to explore their creativity through a wide range of opportunities—from devised and scripted performances to technical theatre, directing, and writing. The departments are home to a variety of performance and rehearsal spaces, including three black-box studios, the Lime Tree Studio, the Girls’ School Performance Space, and the Bourne Hall at the Boys’ School. Each site is supported by a dedicated Theatre Technician, giving students valuable hands-on experience with lighting, sound, and stage management.
Beyond performance, students can pursue the Arts Award to Gold level, gaining valuable experience in directing, design, stage management, and technical theatre. A wide range of clubs and initiatives—from scriptwriting and filmmaking to House Drama competitions—ensures that every student can find their place in the world of theatre. 18
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
Through a rigorous focus on collaboration, innovation, and artistic integrity, students leave Habs equipped not only to succeed in the world of theatre, but to help shape its future.
The Drama Departments at Habs Girls and Habs Boys are committed to preparing students for the next stage of their creative journeys—whether that be drama school, university courses in theatre and related disciplines, or professional work in the arts. 19
HABS SIXTH FORM
Drama scholarship Successful candidates will typically demonstrate: •
•
A reflective and responsive approach to learning, showing openness to feedback, critical thinking, and a desire to grow both intellectually and artistically.
•
Confident and expressive performance skills, with the ability to create believable characters and communicate effectively through voice and movement.
•
•
Drama scholars are expected to:
Strong academic engagement with Drama, a commitment to studying the subject at A Level and a thoughtful understanding of theatrical styles, texts, and practitioners. Candidates will typically achieve a Grade 9 at GCSE level.
A collaborative and imaginative presence in rehearsal and performance, contributing positively to ensemble work and responding creatively to direction.
•
Take Drama at A Level.
•
Be part of the company for at least one major production each year.
•
Engage actively in co-curricular drama, including clubs, workshops, and enrichment opportunities such as New Views, film-making, or open mic events.
•
Contribute to House Drama and other school-wide performance events.
•
Act as ambassadors for Drama within the school community, modelling enthusiasm, commitment, and leadership.
At Habs, we aim to nurture the next generation of theatre-makers—whether they go on to drama school, university, or professional work in the arts. Our Drama scholars are supported to develop their craft, find their voice, and make bold, original work that reflects who they are and the world they live in.
A passion for storytelling, with a desire to create original work—whether through devising, writing, or directing—and an interest in using theatre to explore ideas and connect with audiences.
While formal qualifications such as LAMDA or Trinity exams are not required, applicants should be able to demonstrate a sustained interest in drama through participation in school and/or external productions, workshops, or creative projects.
20
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
How to apply Application criteria/requirements: • •
We welcome applications from students who are predicted a Grade 9 GCSE in Drama (an 8 will be considered in exceptional circumstances). Applicant must study A Level Drama.
S TA G E 1
S TA G E 2
•
All applicants must complete the girls scholarship application form or the boys scholarship application form (found in the Admissions section of each website under scholarships).
•
Portfolios must uploaded into the application form (25MB max).
After the entrance assessment, the Head of Drama will select students from those who have reached the required academic standard (external students only) and demonstrated their potential as a drama scholar, to be invited for an audition. Current Habs students will be selected for interview at the same time.
•
Evidence of achievement: predicted grade data.
•
External students - references must be included in the application form (drama teacher) - to include details of performance work/characters played. For current Habs students, we do not require references.
The audition will include a monologue from a published play and a workshop. Interviews will take place in November and offers will be emailed on 2 December 2026.
What is the value of a Drama scholarship? The value of a scholarship is usually between 10-15% of school fees (but can be up to a maximum of 25% in very exceptional circumstances). Sixth Form Scholarships are held for the duration of a student’s time at the school, subject to sustained levels of progress, participation and performance.
21
HABS SIXTH FORM
Music scholarship The Music Department The Music department at Habs is among the strongest in the country. It is central to life at Habs, exceptional in both its quality and breadth of opportunity. With over 70 ensembles rehearsing every week, over 20 major concerts per year, and lunchtime performance opportunities every week, our musicians are part of one of the most vibrant and diverse music programmes in the country.
We visit concert halls in London several times a year (including St John’s Smith Square and LSO), curate projects through recordings our Big Band made a recording at the worldfamous Abbey Road Studios and collaborate with drama to produce new work - 30 students across the schools recorded four original songs at AIR studios – a sound track to our recent drama production The Video Store at the End of World).
Whilst we value all our musicians, our scholars are central to the ambition of our music school. We are proud to work with some of the finest young musicians in the country. We are committed to helping them realise their potential, and to broadening their horizons along the way. Guided by our expert staff, many of whom work with major London orchestras or hold similar positions in their diverse fields of expertise, we put the interests and passions of the student first, helping them to find their unique voice through music.
As well as the traditional orchestral instruments we have an exceptional jazz department, sending students every year to leading conservatoires in London and beyond. Since 2022 we are also delighted to offer tuition in Indian classical music, on instruments such as Tabla, Dhol, and Harmonium. We have exciting young songwriters, rock bands, composers, improvisers, one of the largest guitar orchestras in the country - all genres and styles of music are given equal importance; we want our leading musicians to guide our course of study, allowing them to shape what we offer with each generation that passes through the school. For any young musician who wants to discover their potential and experience a breadth of styles and opportunities along the way, Habs is the ideal place. Together with our talented young students, we are immensely excited about what the future holds for Habs music.
Music at Habs is in a very exciting place. Music is joint across Habs Girls and Habs Boys, offering more opportunities for all our students.
22
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
23
HABS SIXTH FORM
Music scholarship What we are looking for in a Music scholar Music awards are offered to students who show exceptional potential and innate musicianship. We would expect students to demonstrate enthusiasm for music together with stylistic awareness and interpretative understanding. Music scholars should exude an enthusiasm for all types of music. They should enjoy discovering new music and be itching to discuss it.
We expect Sixth Form scholars to be at, or above Grade 8 on one instrument upon application. It is not essential that the actual grade assessment has been taken, but the candidate should be playing at this level. Contribution in both school and outside musical ensembles will also be taken into consideration.
What is the value of a Music scholarship? There are two types of music award – scholarships and exhibitions. The value of a scholarship is usually between 10-15% of school fees (but can be up to a maximum of 25% in very exceptional circumstances). Sixth Form Scholarships are held for the duration of a student’s time at the school, subject to sustained levels of progress, participation and performance An exhibition gives free tuition on one instrument.
24
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
How to apply S TA G E 1
S TA G E 2
Students do not need to study A Level Music.
After the entrance assessment, the Director of Performance will select students from those who have reached the required academic standard and who have demonstrated their potential as a music scholar; they will be called for audition. Whilst a high level of technical capability is important, we are most excited to hear communicative performance and an authentic connection to music. In the audition we hear students perform a piece (this could be on multiple instruments, though we do not require more than one), complete some brief musicianship tests, and do some sight reading. We also hold a short interview in which we want to find out more about the individual, and their interests in music.
•
All applicants must complete the girls scholarship application form or the boys scholarship application form (found in the Admissions section of each website under scholarships).
•
External students - references must be included in the application form (music teacher). For current Habs students, we do not require references.
After the entrance assessment, the Director of Performance will select students from those who have reached the required academic standard (external students only) and who have demonstrated their potential as a music scholar; and invite them to an audition. Current Habs students will selected for an audition and interview at the same time. Whilst a high level of technical capability is important, we are most excited to hear communicative performance and an authentic connection to music. In the audition we hear students perform a piece (this could be on multiple instruments, though we do not require more than one), complete some brief musicianship tests, and do some sight reading. We also hold a short interview in which we want to find out more about the individual, and their interests in music. Stage 2 will take place in November and offers will be emailed on 2 December 2026. 25
HABS SIXTH FORM
Sports scholarship What are we looking for in a Sports scholar?
Sport at Habs At Habs, sport helps us develop Active People, Good People and Ambitious People. We want students to enjoy being active, grow through challenge and develop the confidence and ambition to make the most of their potential.
Sports scholarships are awarded through a competitive assessment process. We consider a combination of:
Habs Sport scholarships recognise talented young athletes who demonstrate outstanding sporting ability, commitment and future potential. The programme sits within a broad and inclusive sporting culture and is designed not simply to recognise what a student has already achieved, but to support what they might go on to achieve. Sports scholars are expected to contribute positively to the sporting life of Habs and to Play The Habs Way through the way they train, compete, respond to feedback and setbacks, support others and represent the School.
•
Current sporting performance and achievement.
•
Technical and tactical ability.
•
Future potential and rate of development.
•
Athletic qualities appropriate to age and sport.
•
Commitment, coachability and training behaviours.
•
Character and the way the candidate Plays The Habs Way.
•
The contribution the candidate could make to Habs Sport.
Candidates will normally show meaningful commitment and performance beyond school sport, although the nature of this will vary considerably between activities. Representative honours, academy selection, rankings or involvement in a recognised performance pathway provide useful evidence, but no single achievement guarantees a scholarship. Candidates would normally be expected to be involved within a recognised performance pathway, academy, representative programme or equivalent where such structures exist. 26
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
Scholarship structure Award
Value
Purpose
Sports Exhibition
£500 per annum
Recognition for a talented young athlete demonstrating strong performance, clear potential and the attitude to develop within the Habs environment.
Sports scholarship
10-15% remission of school fees
For an outstanding young athlete demonstrating sustained sporting excellence together with significant future potential.
Major Sports scholarship
Up to 25% remission of school fees in exceptional circumstances
For a genuinely exceptional young athlete already performing at a particularly high level or demonstrating outstanding national/elite pathway potential.
The precise value of a Sports scholarship within the 10-15% range is determined through the formal assessment process. The number and value of scholarships available may vary from year to year and all awards remain at the discretion of the School.
A Sports scholarship may be held alongside a means-tested bursary, subject to the School’s normal bursary assessment and availability of funds.
27
HABS SIXTH FORM
Sports scholarship How are Sports scholars supported? Sports scholars are considered for enhanced support through the Habs High Performance Programme (HPP). Support is shaped around the student’s age, sport, performance level, external pathway and individual need. It may include: •
Regular performance conversations and reviews led by the most appropriate coach or performance contact.
•
Strength & Conditioning and athleticdevelopment support.
•
Individual performance planning and appropriate profiling where required.
•
Sports nutrition, performance psychology and wellbeing education.
•
Video or performance analysis where appropriate.
•
Targeted 1:1, small-group or sport-specific development/performance coaching where it adds value.
•
Links with clubs, academies, governing bodies and external performance programmes.
•
Support in managing significant sporting and academic commitments.
•
Leadership and mentoring opportunities as students progress through the School.
The precise package of support is needs-led and may change as the athlete develops. The HPP operates through HPP Development, HPP Performance and HPP Elite, but holding a Sports Exhibition, Sports scholarship or Major Sports scholarship does not automatically determine a particular HPP level or guarantee every element listed above.
28
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES
How to apply The application and assessment process is aligned across Habs Boys and Habs Girls.
S TA G E 1 - A P P L I C AT I O N Applicants complete the girls scholarship application form, or the boys scholarship application form providing details of their sporting experience, achievements, current training and competition commitments, and any relevant club, academy or performancepathway involvement. External pupils are welcome to include references if they feel these will strengthen their application. References may be provided by current PE teachers, club coaches, governing body coaches or other appropriate adults who are able to support the candidate’s sporting profile. Internal pupils may choose to include references from external sources if they feel these provide helpful additional context, particularly in sports where the school may have had fewer opportunities to observe them. We do not require internal references from our own staff.
S TA G E 2 - A D M I S S I O N S AND SHORTLISTING
S TA G E 3 - P R A C T I C A L ASSESSMENT AND INTERVIEW Shortlisted candidates attend a practical assessment and interview in addition to the usual admissions interviews. The practical assessment may include sport-specific activities, observation in competitive or game-based situations, and age-appropriate athletic profiling or fitness testing where this adds useful evidence. External performance evidence may also be considered. Candidates will also take part in an interview with members of the Sports scholarship panel. This explores their sporting journey, motivation, commitment, coachability, character, future ambitions and potential contribution to Habs Sport.
S TA G E 4 - PA N E L D E C I S I O N Assessment evidence is considered by the Sports scholarship panel. Scholarships are competitive and limited, and meeting the published criteria does not guarantee an award. Final scholarship decisions and the value of any award are approved through the School’s normal scholarship and admissions processes and communicated by Admissions.
Applicants follow the normal admissions process for their School and point of entry. Following the relevant entrance assessment and/or admissions process, the Director of Offers will be emailed on 2 December 2026. Sporting Operations and Development and the appropriate Sports scholarship panel review applications from candidates who have reached the required academic standard and identify those to be invited to the Sports scholarship assessment. 29
Our pu To empower youn a profound impa
urpose ng people to make act in the world