Sixth Form - September 2026 entry
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 academic scholarships for both prospective and current pupils.
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.
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.
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.
MR ROBERT SYKES HEADMASTER
DR HAZEL BAGWORTH-MANN HEADMISTRESS
The programme summary
What is scholarship at Habs?
Scholarship at Habs combines key academic and personal attributes which reflect our overall values in particular ways.
Courage – A scholar is courageous in seeking to go outside their current understanding, challenging themselves to overcome preconceptions and develop their understanding.
Curiosity – A scholar is deeply curious and will take and make opportunities to explore their interests further.
Community – A scholar is committed to sharing their knowledge, skills and understanding and is eager to engage with others in developing these further.
Ambition – A scholar has the ambition to take their work to the highest level possible.
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.
Those students who demonstrate these attributes, and do so to the highest level consistently through their school career, will be recognised formally as scholars.
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 & Technology, Music and Sport. All assessment details can be found in this booklet.
Students may apply for up to two subject based scholarships, however please be mindful that it is very unlikely for Sixth Formers to be awarded two scholarships due to the time commitment additionally required to fulfil their commitments required for the Habs Diploma, A Levels and co- curricular.
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.
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.
Research scholarship
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.
Successful applicants will begin their research journey with the support of a mentor and a structured programme, culminating in a final presentation or publication.
Research scholars will:
• 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.
What is the value of a Research scholarship?
The value of the scholarship 10% of school fees. Sixth Form Scholarships are held for the duration of a student’s time at the school, subject to the complete a substantial research project.
Successful proposals will demonstrate: Research scholarship
1. Originality and ambition
• Pose a clear, focused, and academically meaningful question.
• Demonstrate originality, through a novel topic, a unique angle of an existing topic, or an interdisciplinary question.
2. Evidence of independent thought
• Reflect the student’s approach to the topic through personal insight or a unique perspective.
• Show evidence of independent exploration of the topic.
• 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.
4. Planning and timeline
• Include a clear and logical timeline, broken into stages or milestones.
• Show evidence of forward planning and time management.
• Reflect an understanding of how the project will evolve over time.
5. Depth and breadth of wider reading
• Demonstrate engagement with a range of relevant academic sources.
• Include a well-structured bibliography that reflects both depth (specialist texts) and breadth (contextual readings).
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.
STAGE 1
Research Scholarships are only available to students entering the Sixth Form.
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
STAGE 2
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.
Interviews will take place in late November and offers will be send in the post on 4 December 2025.
RESEARCH PROPOSAL TO BE SUBMITTED BY 5 NOVEMBER 2025, 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
Art scholarship
The art department
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.
What you can expect to experience:
• 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:
• Lead and contribute to our Arts Award programme/clubs.
• Lead and contribute to whole school assemblies with a creative focus.
• Take part in specialist extended projects.
• Take part in specialist workshops with Artists-in-Residence.
• Attend special gallery and museum trips.
Art scholarship
What we are looking for in an art scholar
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.
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.
Sixth Form Art scholars are:
• 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.
How to apply
Application criteria/requirements:
• We welcome applications from students who are predicted a 9 or higher at GCSE in Art, Textiles, 3D Design or similar (an 8 will be considered in exceptional circumstances).
• Applicant must study A Level Art.
STAGE 1
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.
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.
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 and head). For current Habs students, we do not require references.
STAGE 2
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.
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.
Interviews will take place in November and offers will be send in the post on 5 December 2025.
Design and technology scholarship
Design and technology department
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 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.
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.
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, pupils are regularly awarded the prestigious Arkwright scholarship for their potential to become one of the leaders of the engineering field.
Design and technology scholarship
What we are looking for in a design and technology scholar
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.
We are looking for students who demonstrate:
• 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 D&T 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.
How to apply
Application criteria/requirements:
• Applicant must study A Level Design and Technology.
STAGE 1
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.
• 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 and head). For current Habs students, we do not require references.
STAGE 2
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.
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 sent in the post on 5 December 2025.
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.
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.
Together, they provide a rich and inclusive environment where students are empowered to become confident performers, imaginative storytellers, and thoughtful theatre-makers.
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.
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.
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.
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.
SCHOLARSHIP
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.
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.
Drama scholarship
Successful candidates will typically demonstrate:
• 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 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.
• A collaborative and imaginative presence in rehearsal and performance, contributing positively to ensemble work and responding creatively to direction.
• 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.
Drama Scholars are expected to:
• 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.
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.
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.
STAGE 1
• 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 (drama teacher and head - to include details of performance work/characters played. For current Habs students, we do not require references.
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.
STAGE 2
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.
The audition will include a monologue from a published play and a workshop.
Interviews will take place in November and offers will be sent in the post on 5 December 2025.
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.
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.
Music at Habs is in a very exciting place. As of September 2025, music is joint across Habs Girls and Habs Boys, offering more opportunities for all our students.
We visit concert halls in London several times a year (including St John’s Smith Square and LSO), curate projects through recordingsour 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).
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 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.
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.
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.
How to apply
STAGE 1
Students do not need to study A Level 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 and head. For current Habs students, we do not require references.
STAGE 2
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.
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 sent in the post on 5 December 2025.
Sports scholarship
The Sports department
The PE and sports provision at Habs is vibrant, inclusive, and one of the largest of its kind in the UK. With extraordinarily high numbers of students regularly engaging in physical activity, our programme caters to all abilities, whether students are competing at county, regional, and national levels, or simply enjoying the social aspects of sport.
The success of our focus and performance sports, combined with a wide range of recreational opportunities, creates a thriving sports community that enhances both individual development and school spirit. We take great pride in offering a programme that not only celebrates and supports elite performance but also focuses on participation and student wellbeing.
We have successfully developed our own approach towards physical development and active wellbeing. We implement a clear pathway from Reception to Year 13, focussing on all ability levels which is easily accessible for those joining us along the way. Our students understand the importance of movement and love meeting the challenges to improve their physical literacy, health and wellbeing.
Sport at Habs is much more than just competition – it is an integral part of the school experience, promoting resilience, teamwork, and leadership in every student. You will see a very clear emphasis on character and values with ‘The Habs Way’ being the foundation for everything we try to do.
PE and school sport becomes the vehicle for this to succeed as we work to ensure that our students leave us as better people and fully prepared to make a profound impact in wider society.
It is because of this, rather than in spite of it, that individual students and teams enjoy regular and consistent success at county, regional and national levels across a staggering range of activities. There is no narrow focus here as we encourage and support everyone to find their passion for sport and which sees elements of High Performance everywhere you look.
Sports Scholarships, and the accompanying broader support offered through our incredible High-Performance Programme, shows that Habs is serious about supporting our very best athletes as they strive to make the most of their sporting potential. We are immensely fortunate on our 100-acre site to offer outstanding sports facilities, high class teaching and coaching support, and strong partnerships with elite performance providers.
Successful candidates will typically demonstrate:
• Sustained sporting excellence, talent, and future potential to continue progressing toward elite-level performance.
• Playing within a recognised performance pathway or equivalent development programme for their sport(s).
• Students should be active, and impactful, participants in their school’s sports teams.
• Significant commitment and achievement in sports beyond the school environment.
Sport scholars are expected to:
• Be active and impactful, membership in school sports teams.
• Regularly participation in external clubs and competitions.
• Demonstrate the school values through sport: Courage, Curiosity, Community, and Ambition.
• Be ambassadors and role models, with expectations to contribute positively to the sporting life of the school.
• Mentor: Older scholars mentor younger students as part of their leadership development.
Sports scholarship
Scholar Benefits
• Access to strong regional fixture lists across a wide range of sports.
• Be part of strong partnerships in place with local clubs, academies and elite sport pathways.
• Exceptionally high-quality coaching from teaching staff and employed professionals.
• Access to the High-Performance Programme for pupils who show the potential to perform in elite sports.
• Access to a range of online seminars aimed at supporting sports scholars hosted by Independent Coach Education.
• 1:1 Mentoring with PE staff and/or Heads of Sport.
• Regular wellbeing monitoring.
• Access to the Mind Health Programme from Believe Perform which integrates performance psychology and mental health principles, designed to help athletes perform better and thrive mentally.
• Invites to the Sports Nutrition KitbagA series of Sports Nutrition seminars and practical workshops hosted by Holroyd Howe and their industry experts.
• Bespoke Strength and Conditioning assessment, profiling and development with our partner Arete Performance and supported by our two Athletic Development Leads.
• Tactical and Leadership Seminars.
• Video analysis of individual and team performance which includes the use of Dartfish, Veo and Frogbox.
• 1:1 and/or small group training.
• University visits to include lab testing and opportunities to explore links with business opportunities in relation to future career pathways.
• Regular high-quality sports tours and visits within the UK and abroad.
• In addition to the sessions listed above within the HPP, we will also allocate time for supervised study/catch up during particularly busy times in the year. This is especially important given the large amount of time that high performance sport occupies.
How to apply
Application criteria/requirements:
• Students are not required to study PE.
• Students will be, in most cases, playing within a recognised performance pathway or equivalent development programme for their sport(s) where such pathways exist. Please note playing across a range of A teams at senior schools, while desirable and valued, is not in itself likely to constitute a strong enough standard to be considered for a Sports Scholarship.
• Students must have a demonstrated ability to compete at a high level and with the potential to continue progressing toward elite-level performance.
• Demonstrated excellence and potential in at least one sport, preferably including football, hockey, cricket (Boys), or lacrosse, netball and cricket (Girls).
STAGE 1
• 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 (sports teacher and head - to include details of performance work/characters played. For current Habs students, we do not require references.
What is the value of a Sports 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.
STAGE 2
After the entrance assessment, the Director of Sporting Operations and Development, and panel, will select students from those who have reached the required academic standard (external students only) and who have demonstrated their potential as a sports scholar; they will be invited to a practical session and interview. Current Habs students will be selected for interview at the same time.
The practical session may include a sport aptitude test, fitness testing, and activities relating to the candidate’s main sport. Candidates will also have a further interview with the Director of Sporting Operations and Development and Director of Sport or Head of Sport.
Stage 2 will take place in November and offers will be sent in the post on 5 December 2025.
Our purpose
To empower young a profound impact