AN INTRODUCTION TO OAKHAM SCHOLARSHIPS
At Oakham, we believe in celebrating excellence, nurturing potential, and inspiring ambition. Our Scholarships recognise pupils who demonstrate outstanding ability, flair, and promise - whether academically, artistically, musically, dramatically, or athletically.
We offer Scholarships at key entry points - 11+, 13+, 14+ (new joiners only), and 16+ - across the following areas:
Academic
Art
Design & Technology
Drama
Music
Sport
Pupils may apply for more than one category, though they can hold a maximum of two awards at any time (Academic plus one other). This ensures they can fully commit to their chosen field while maintaining balance and wellbeing
Scholarships are reviewed periodically to ensure pupils continue to meet expectations and benefit from the programme They may also be relinquished if a pupil’s interests or commitments change
Academic & Music Scholarships awarded at 11+ will usually last for 5 years before reassessment
Sport Scholarships awarded at 11+ will last for 2 years before reassessment
Scholarships awarded at 13+ usually will last for 3 years before compulsory reassessment
Scholarships awarded at 14+ usually will last for 2 years before reassessment
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Most Scholarships come with a 10% reduction in day fees, and Music Scholars also receive a free weekly 30minute instrumental lesson. Scholarship holders may also apply for a means-tested bursary, administered confidentially by our Finance team
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AN OAKHAM SCHOLAR
Scholars are ambassadors for Oakham School. They: Make a strong contribution to School and take a lead in House life
Show commitment to the school and to the department.
Are always ambassadors for Oakham School.
Lead by example, inspire and motivate others Maintain excellent performance in their field
ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS
An Academic Scholar can be characterised as ‘intelligent, interested and interesting’. They will have one or more subjects or intellectual pursuits that particularly excite them, as well as a demonstrable passion for learning in general. They should be keen to contribute to the intellectual life of the School and act as role models to their peers.
BEING AN ACADEMIC SCHOLAR
All Academic Scholars automatically become members of the Scholars’ Society, through which they develop their intellectual ability, critical thinking and communication skills under the guidance of the Senior Academic Mentor Members are divided into small groups by age, and together with a pair of Form 7 (Year 13) Scholars as mentors, they meet on a regular basis throughout each term for seminars as well as enjoying bespoke trips and activities
The Senior Academic Mentor works alongside dedicated Academic Mentors for Lower School, Middle School and Upper School to monitor the progress of Academic Scholars, and offer guidance and encouragement at individual meetings where they discuss the Scholar’s specific interests and further opportunities to develop Mentors often drop in on lessons to witness Scholars at work, enabling them to observe Scholars in their primary duty to the School as a whole, namely as academic role models to their peers
All Academic Scholars attend the annual Scholars’ Society dinner, when they are addressed by a guest speaker.
In addition to those holding formal academic awards, there are a number of ‘Housemasters/mistresses’ Nominees’: individuals whom Housemasters/mistresses and the Senior Academic Mentor agree will benefit from the Society’s activities
HOW ARE CANDIDATES ASSESSED?
11+ Academic Scholarships
Candidates take the normal 11+ Lower School entrance assessments (papers in Maths and English, and an online CAT4 test, along with a short interview) We then recall those pupils whose results show scholarship potential for interview and further Maths and English papers These tests are based on what a child is expected to have studied for Key Stage 2
13+ Academic Scholarships
Candidates take the normal 13+ Middle School entrance assessments (papers in Maths and English, and an online CAT4 test, along with a short interview) We then recall those pupils whose results show scholarship potential for interview and further Maths and English papers
There is no fixed syllabus for the written examinations for 13+ academic awards, which are suitable for pupils from a variety of syllabuses and educational backgrounds An essential part of the process is for the candidates to demonstrate their intellectual curiosity in academic interviews Some of the questions will seek to test whether candidates have read or explored more deeply than is required by the demands of any particular syllabus.
16+ Academic Scholarships
Candidates are examined at Oakham in two academic subjects from those available to Upper School students (normally two of those they intend to study at A-level or at IB Diploma Higher Level) They also complete an online CAT4 test and have an interview.
HOW TO APPLY
External candidates
11+ and 13+ After sitting the relevant entrance examinations, pupils whose papers show scholarship potential are invited to return to School for interview and to sit further papers.
16+ We need to see a recent report from the applicant’s school so we can advise on a Scholarship application. Applicants are likely to be predicted 8s and 9s in their GCSE examinations
Internal candidates
13+ Lower School pupils in Form 2 may be recommended to sit for a scholarship by the Head of Lower School.
16+ Middle School pupils in Form 5 may be recommended to sit for a scholarship by the Head of Middle School.
Contact the Admissions team for more information: Tel: 01572 758758
Email: admissions@oakham.rutland.sch.uk
ART SCHOLARSHIPS
Candidates should be passionate about Art. They should demonstrate exceptional drawing skills as well as their own individual strengths as an artist, in whatever medium that might be.
We are looking for candidates who show they are committed to developing their talents and are keen to explore new ways of working Independence and selfmotivation are vital
BEING AN ART SCHOLAR
The Art Department is thriving, with large numbers of students gaining places at top institutions to study across a diverse range of creative courses: from Architecture to Fashion, History of Art to Illustration. There are lots of opportunities for Scholars to be involved in leading Art events in the School Art Scholars will be involved in devising and leading whole school creative activities, helping to plan, curate and promote exhibitions, organising Art Department events and attending artist-led workshops They will share their interest in the subject by contributing towards a Scholars’ space within the Art Department, which will include the exhibiting of their work, as well as presenting interesting research about the art world
It is assumed that you will be studying the subject in your curriculum lessons at A-level/IB Diploma (16+ candidates) or will be intending to study it at GCSE (13+ candidates).
HOW ARE CANDIDATES ASSESSED?
Candidates should bring a portfolio of their own work to the assessment day This is an opportunity to bring together a variety of recent work which demonstrates a range of skills, approaches and ideas. The Director of Art will conduct interviews and candidates will be asked to introduce their work, answering questions as well as talking about their wider interests. There will also be a practical challenge set, providing an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their skills and attitude towards a creative activity
DESIGN TECHNOLOGY SCHOLARSHIPS
We are looking for candidates who participate enthusiastically in Design and enjoy projects, whether at school or home. Candidates should be able to sketch ideas in 2D and 3D, and should demonstrate the ability to analyse situations and solve problems by suggesting creative alternatives to existing products.
The ability to communicate ideas is essential. 16+ candidates should be able to demonstrate the use of 3D CAD software to develop ideas and be competent in the workshop environment
BEING A DT SCHOLAR
All DT Scholars will have the opportunity to participate in one of the many enrichment activities held in the Jerwood School of Design, our purpose-built facility, with specialist equipment for the most challenging of projects
DT Scholars compete in different competitions and awards, including the Leicestershire and Rutland Annual Rotary Engineering Competition Alongside classmates, they also participate in the many educational trips and visits that the DT Department organises, including the biannual trip to Bologna.
Many of our DT Scholars go on to study a design or engineering degree at one of the top UK universities and previous Scholars have gone on to exhibit at the Design Museum, set up tech start-ups, gain placements on National Higher Apprenticeship Programmes, and work for globally recognised brand leaders.
It is assumed that you will be studying the subject in your curriculum lessons at A-level/IB Diploma (16+ candidates) or will be intending to study it at GCSE (13+ candidates).
HOW ARE CANDIDATES ASSESSED?
All candidates are required to attend an interview, where they will be asked to discuss their own work and that of others They should all ideally have a favourite designer, engineer or architect for whom they aspire to be as successful.
External 13+ award candidates should apply in sufficient time to complete a small project independently. A new project is set annually, and this can be completed at home, as it requires no specialist equipment Additionally, we ask that candidates bring a portfolio of their own design work where they can illustrate their ability to design, make, repair, and upcycle products
16+ award candidates should submit their GCSE coursework and answer a Design examination question Candidates are also required to submit a detailed product analysis of their choice
DT ARKWRIGHT SCHOLARSHIPS
This is an external 16+ scholarship that the School supports It is a national scheme open to schools who achieve the necessary standards. Students may apply for an award during their last year of GCSE studies.
We support students through the process of making an application for this prestigious award and mentor all successful candidates through their Upper School studies Those entering the School at 16+ who have achieved the status of an Arkwright Scholar will be mentored with other successful candidates within the School
Candidates will ideally take Design and Technology and Mathematics at A-level or Higher Level IB Diploma, whilst also considering a future in product design or engineering
DRAMA SCHOLARSHIPS
We are looking for pupils who love watching and making Theatre; who will be passionate about performing; who will already have a keen regard for their own developmental process, and who will strive to enhance their own practice – all the while making a significant contribution to Theatre and Drama at Oakham.
BEING A DRAMA SCHOLAR
You will join a select few who form the essential core of the School’s many prestigious productions These range from full-scale stage plays and musicals in our 200+ seat Queen Elizabeth Theatre to smaller scale or experimental pieces in the Old School Studio. You will be honing your performance skills and learning new ones during accent and dialect workshops, specialist dance and stage-fight training, and masterclasses in movement and audition technique, led by industry professionals
You will be mentored by the Director of Drama who will monitor your progress and development and offer guidance on any further Drama or Theatre education or career options you may be considering; be they in Classical Acting, Musical Theatre, directing or media.
It is assumed that you will be studying the subject in your curriculum lessons at A-level/IB Diploma (16+ candidates) or will be intending to study it at GCSE (13+ candidates).
HOW ARE CANDIDATES ASSESSED?
Candidates write a letter of application outlining what they can bring to Drama at Oakham and what are their aspirations, hopes and goals for their time here The letter should also include a resumé of their performance work undertaken so far. They should also mention any theatre they have seen and enjoyed
13+ candidates will participate in workshops, auditions and interviews. Each candidate should prepare two contrasting monologues - one classical (possibly Shakespeare) and one contemporary, each lasting approximately 2 minutes These should be taken from full-length published plays, and their suitability for this purpose should be checked well in advance with the Director of Drama
16+ candidates should prepare two pieces for audition: an extract from Shakespeare or a Jacobean playwright such as Marlowe, Webster, Tourneur, Middleton or Fletcher; the other should be from a published 20th or 21st Century play of choice. Neither extract should be longer than 3 minutes Candidates will also take part in an hour-long workshop and be interviewed. They will be expected to engage in discussion about the theatre and their interest in it.
The Director of Drama will be pleased to see and advise prospective candidates in advance of the audition. Theatre Design candidates in particular should make contact in good time to discuss assessment preparation
MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS
We encourage applications from pupils with exceptional musical potential for their age, as well as evidence of enthusiasm, dedication, technical proficiency and sightreading ability. As a guide, candidates are likely to have reached the following standard on their principal study:
• 11+ Grade 4
• 13+ Grade 6
• 16+ Grade 8
When candidates have taken music examinations, we are looking for high exam marks rather than high grades It is hoped that 13+ and 16+ applicants will have passed Grade 5 theory
BEING A MUSIC SCHOLAR
Oakham’s music scholarship programme offers talented and committed pupils the opportunity to benefit from expert tuition, ambitious ensemble and solo opportunities, and mentoring of their musical development throughout their years in the School. Our Music Scholars are key role models within the vibrant musical life of the School, and musicians meet regularly with the Director of Music for additional guidance and support. The scholarship programme provides excellent preparation for musical pathways beyond Oakham, with pupils regularly going on to study music at leading conservatoires and universities
Music Scholars benefit from free tuition on their principal instrument(s), the details of which are confirmed when the scholarship is awarded
HOW ARE CANDIDATES ASSESSED?
Potential applicants for a scholarship are encouraged to book a pre-audition at least a term in advance of a formal audition, at which Music staff will offer guidance about the suitability of a candidate’s application and recommend areas for development
Applicants for Music Awards will attend an audition and an interview with the Music staff of the School. Candidates should bring two contrasting pieces on their main instrument and one or more pieces on each additional instrument. Auditions will include sightreading, scales/arpeggios and aural tests consistent with the candidate’s level of ability, as well as discussion of their chosen repertoire There is no written paper.
SPORT SCHOLARSHIPS
11+ applicants will need to show a good level of athletic skill and potential for development in Oakham’s major games. Fitness, attitude and determination are as important as accomplishment.
13+ applicants would normally show a high level of ability across Oakham’s major games, or very occasionally an exceptional ability in one. Potential, attitude and determination are as important as accomplishment.
16+ applicants will be involved in the later stages of National Governing Body or academy pathways, following post 16 reselection, and will be aspiring to play elite sport after leaving School.
BEING A SPORT SCHOLAR
We expect Sport Scholars to lead by example in their chosen sport; to be a beacon for those around them and an example to those below them
Sport Scholars will receive ongoing tailored support from Oakham School’s specialist coaching staff, including our full-time Strength and Conditioning Coach, to nurture their sporting talent and physical and psychological development
Scholars from 11+ will play sport all year round and will be committed to our Sporting Talent Project, a twoyear programme providing preparation for the future Scholars who join the School at 13+ will enjoy training and playing a variety of sports, whilst those joining at 16+ will, more than likely, be starting to specialise.
We work hand in hand with NGB talent development pathways in different sports and many of our sporting alumni have left the School to pursue their sport at the highest competitive levels both nationally and internationally.
In the last two years sporting alumni have left to play rugby for Premiership clubs including Leicester Tigers and Wasps; First Class cricket for Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire; and hockey for Premier League clubs Beeston and Leicester, as well as England and Germany
HOW ARE CANDIDATES ASSESSED?
At 11+ all applicants attend an assessment day At the assessment day, candidates will be assessed for fitness, fundamental skills and agility as well as having the opportunity to demonstrate their team working, coachability and higher-level decision making
At 13+ all applicants attend an assessment day At the assessment day, candidates will be assessed in the School’s major games, as well as completing a battery of physiological tests, which will help to gauge their ability to perform at a higher level
At 16+ the Director of Sport reserves the right to call for assessment only those individuals whose applications demonstrate a high enough level of achievement in their sport Those applicants selected attend a comprehensive assessment day, the programme for which varies from sport to sport, but will include practical sessions, fitness testing and discussion of sporting ambitions
Major Sports - Girls: Netball, Hockey, Cricket
Major Sports - Boys: Rugby, Hockey, Cricket