Scholarships at Sherborne Prep are awarded to recognise talent, potential, and character in pupils joining in Years 6, 7, or 8. We offer Academic Scholarships, as well as awards in Music, Art, Drama, and Sport.
This booklet outlines the process and opportunities available to scholarship applicants. There are two formal scholarship assessment dates published in the School Calendar, although applications from new families are welcome throughout the year.
We offer a limited fee reduction for successful scholarship recipients, which can be further enhanced through a bursary application. In addition, Sherborne Prep scholars have the opportunity to lead their peers in their specialist fields. For example, drama scholars are expected to support and encourage the productions of younger year groups.
Over many years, Sherborne Prep pupils have shown an impressive record of achievement in winning senior school scholarships across all disciplines. We foresee a strong through pathway for those who come to us as scholars to leave us as scholars.
We are proud of the high standards set across our school, and we offer scholars additional opportunities to enrich their experience at Sherborne Prep.
Academic
We encourage Academic Scholars to pursue their individual interests with enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity. They are supported in developing their own academic identity and setting a strong example to their peers.
Scholars are carefully prepared for senior school scholarship assessments, and their progress is closely monitored.
Opportunities for Academic Scholars include:
• academic Enrichment sessions
• lectures and talks by visiting speakers
• collaborative projects, presentations, and mentoring across the Sherborne Schools Group
• UK and overseas trips with a focus on languages, history, and culture
• progress tracking to ensure pupils remain challenged and motivated
• representing Sherborne Prep at enrichment days for high attainers
• a dedicated academic coach or mentor, alongside Form Tutor guidance
Academic Scholars are expected to demonstrate a love of learning and a desire to achieve. They typically work above national age-related expectations, with a strong commitment to academic progression and excellence.
Scholarship assessments are held in November and February, and include cognitive ability tests, Mathematics and English assessments, and one or more academic interviews with senior staff.
Music
Sherborne Prep has a thriving music department, filled with energy and opportunity. We run five choirs, including a Chamber Choir and a Senior Girls’ Vocal Group. Many pupils are also Sherborne Abbey Choristers, singing in the Abbey each week.
The School Orchestra, Brass Ensemble, Percussion Ensembles, chamber groups, and jazz bands all contribute to a rich musical culture.
Our musicians frequently perform alongside pupils from Sherborne Boys and Sherborne Girls, including through the Joint Schools’ Orchestra. Lessons are delivered by a team of experienced peripatetic teachers, covering all instruments.
Scholars perform in solo concerts, termly flagship concerts, and assemblies. Many also compose their own music through a curriculum structured around performance, listening and appraisal, improvisation, and composition.
Music Scholars receive:
• two individual music lessons per week within the school day
• specialist theory and advanced aural training
• opportunities to lead and inspire in ensembles and choirs
We expect scholars to set a positive example by being prepared, punctual, well-rehearsed, and committed to their musical development.
By age 11, Music Scholars should typically be performing at Grade 3 standard or above on their principal instrument and show the ability to sing. However, we are more interested in musical potential than exam certificates.
Assessment includes performance of two contrasting pieces on a principal instrument, plus additional pieces if applicable.
Candidates also undertake sight-reading, aural tests, and an interview with the Head of Music and Director of Music.
We consider choral scholarships, especially to those who have shown considerable commitment to Sherborne Abbey
ArtArt is a strength at Sherborne Prep, and our pupils are encouraged to express their creativity across a range of media and styles. The Art Studio is open at break and lunch, and the Head of Art offers one-to-one mentoring for budding artists.
Art Scholars are expected to go above and beyond, demonstrating sustained commitment and progression. In return, they receive access to high-level support and opportunities including:
• personalised guidance on individual projects
• promotion of their work through events and exhibitions
• use of facilities at Sherborne Boys and Sherborne Girls
• workshops and mentoring with senior school scholars
• creative co-curricular clubs and History of Art Enrichment
• visits to exhibitions and galleries
Scholars build a personal portfolio and are expected to communicate their ideas effectively. Drawing and painting skills are desirable, alongside a strong desire to explore new creative directions.
Assessment includes the submission of a portfolio, a formal creative task completed on-site, and observation of collaborative group work.
Drama
Drama is woven through the life of the school. All pupils from Years 2 to 8 have weekly lessons in the studio, learning to explore character, build confidence, and work as a team.
Each year group performs a major production annually, alternating between plays and musicals. These are directed by the Head of Drama, with scripts often adapted for the children involved.
Speech and Drama lessons are available from Year 5 onwards, and pupils work towards examinations in Poetry and Prose and Acting.
Drama Scholars:
• receive weekly Speech and Drama lessons
• take part in a tailored mentoring programme
• support younger pupils in rehearsals and productions
• develop their audition, performance, and presentation skills
Above all, we are looking for pupils with a genuine passion for theatre. They are expected to play an active role in school productions and inspire others with their creativity and commitment.
Assessment includes performance of a chosen monologue or poem, sight-reading, and an interview with the Head of Drama. Video footage of previous performances is welcome.
Sports Scholars receive personalised support and guidance to help them excel in their chosen discipline. This includes:
• small group coaching
• tailored training programmes
• mentoring and performance tracking
• advice on nutrition and athlete wellbeing
Our pupils benefit from a high-quality sports programme and access to excellent facilities through Sherborne Prep’s close partnership with Sherborne Boys and Sherborne Girls.
We develop problem-solvers, team players, and good sportspeople – children who are respectful, motivated, and ambitious.
Sports Scholars are expected to model these values, showing leadership and sportsmanship both on and off the pitch.
Assessment includes:
• physical profiling (agility, coordination, speed)
• practical assessment in chosen sports
• game awareness, decision-making, and teamwork
• an interview with the Director of Sport
If appropriate, the Director of Sport will also observe pupils in a club or school match. Video footage may be submitted as part of the application.
Sherborne Prep
Acreman Street
Sherborne
Dorset DT9 3NY + 44 (0) 1935 810911
admissions@sherborneprep.group
sherborneprep.group
