BUILDING CURIOSITY, AMBITION AND GENEROSITY IN EVERY INDIVIDUAL
Sir William Perkins’s School has much to offer individuals who demonstrate outstanding talents and potential in their chosen field.
In our mission to develop, extend and nurture talent, a range of scholarships are available to exceptional students who will benefit from the experiences and opportunities our scholars’ programmes offer.
We believe in developing our students’ talent, supporting them to become curious, ambitious and generous individuals, ready to take on life when they leave us.
The school supports, develops and celebrates Academic, Creative Arts, STEM and Sporting talent from Year 7 onwards though our range of Scholarship programmes.
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PROGRAMME TO REWARD, CELEBRATE AND SUPPORT EXCEPTIONAL TALENT
We are proud to offer a range of scholarships designed to recognise outstanding ability and nurture students’ passions. Academic scholarships are awarded following a successful interview with the Head or Academic Deputy. These awards may come with a reduction in academic tuition fees and include access to our vibrant Scholars’ Programme.
Scholarships in Art, Drama, Music, Sport and STEM are granted based on each department’s assessment process, and like academic awards, they may also carry a variable level of fee remission. Students who show great promise but aren’t awarded a full scholarship may be invited to join our Aspire programme. This special pathway offers access to many of the enriching experiences enjoyed by Scholars - such as peer mentoring, unique trips, and co-curricular opportunities - all in recognition of their talent and dedication. Whilst there is no fee reduction for the Aspire programme, it’s a prestigious and rewarding chance to develop your skills and interests even further.
All scholarships are awarded for the duration of a student’s time at the school, although certain departments may set conditions - such as continuing to study the subject at A Level. Awards are reviewed based on a student’s performance and level of commitment to the Scholars’ Programme. In return for these privileges and opportunities, Scholars are expected to give their best, take full advantage of what’s on offer, and play an active role in the life of the school.
ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS FROM YEAR
7, YEAR 9 AND SIXTH FORM
YEAR 7 ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS APPLICATION
There is no need to apply separately for an Academic Scholarship at Year 7. All students who sit our Entrance Assessments will automatically be considered. Those who perform exceptionally well will be invited to an interview with the Head or Academic Deputy, where we’ll explore their academic strengths in more depth. Scholarships are then awarded to outstanding candidates.
YEAR 9 ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS APPLICATION
Students joining us in Year 9 are invited to apply for an Academic Scholarship by submitting our application form. As part of the process, candidates will sit scholarship papers in Maths and English and take part in an interview with the Head or Academic Deputy to discuss their academic interests and aspirations.
SIXTH FORM ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS APPLICATION
Students in Year 11, whether already at SWPS or coming from another school, are welcome to apply for an Academic Scholarship when registering for Sixth Form. A scholarship examination is held in November during the Autumn Term. Based on their performance, selected students will be invited to interview with the Head or Academic Deputy. Scholarships may then be awarded, either based on this process or at the Head’s discretion, in recognition of outstanding academic achievement.
ART SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT PROCESS
ART & DESIGN SCHOLARSHIPS
– CELEBRATING CREATIVITY
Art & Design Scholarships are offered to students joining SWPS in either Year 7, Year 9 or Sixth Form who show exceptional creativity and promise, alongside meeting our usual entry requirements. These awards are not only a mark of distinction—they also come with a reduction in tuition fees.
HOW DOES A STUDENT APPLY FOR AN ART & DESIGN SCHOLARSHIP?
Applying is simple - just complete the Art Scholarship section on our main application form (for 11+, 13+ or 16+ entry). The deadline for Year 7, Year 9 and Sixth Form applications is 15 October in the year prior to entry.
WHAT TO EXPECT – YEAR 7
ART & DESIGN SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT
Candidates will be invited to an assessment day that includes:
A relaxed and enjoyable drawing or painting task, using still-life objects - students may bring an object of their choice, or select one from the art room.
A portfolio review: candidates should bring
up to six pieces (or six sheets of mounted work) showcasing their talent. This might include paintings, drawings, or photographs of 3D work (maximum size A1). If the pieces are large or 3D, photos are absolutely fine.
A short conversation with the Head of Art & Design to discuss their work, inspirations, and creative process.
Please make sure the portfolio is something your child can comfortably carry themselves.
Assessment marks are weighted as follows: 80% for the practical exam piece and 20% for the portfolio.
HOW ARE ART & DESIGN SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED FOR SIXTH FORM APPLICANTS?
Students applying for a Sixth Form Art & Design Scholarship will be invited to take part in a practical, two-hour assessment. During this time, they’ll create a still-life drawing or painting using objects of their own choice - either brought in from home or selected in advance from the Art Department’s collection.
The artwork should be completed on A3 paper, and candidates are welcome to use any medium they feel comfortable with, such as pencil, pastels, paint, or ink. We’ll have a range of materials available on the
day, but students can also bring their own if they prefer.
Alongside the practical task, candidates should bring in a portfolio on the day, including a sketchbook and up to five pieces of their artwork - this might include drawings, paintings, or photos of 3D work (mounted or unmounted, up to A1 in size). If you’d like more details about available stilllife materials or have any other questions, feel free to contact Ian Russell, Head of Art & Design, at irussell@swps.org.uk
DRAMA SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT PROCESS
DRAMA SCHOLARSHIPS –BRINGING TALENT TO CENTRE STAGE
At Sir William Perkins’s School, we love discovering students with a natural flair and passion for drama. Drama Scholarships are awarded to students joining us in either Year 7, Year 9 or Sixth Form who not only meet our standard entry criteria, but also show exceptional ability and potential in the performing arts. These scholarships are a mark of distinction and also include a reduction in tuition fees.
HOW DOES A STUDENT APPLY FOR A DRAMA SCHOLARSHIP?
Applying is simple - just complete the Drama Scholarship section on our main application form (for 11+, 13+ or 16+ entry). The deadline for Year 7, Year 9 and Sixth Form applications is 15 October in the year prior to entry.
WHAT TO EXPECT – YEAR 7 AND YEAR 9 SCHOLARSHIPS
The selection process has two stages:
1. Video Submission: Candidates will submit a short monologue (chosen from a list we provide) and a reference from a teacher, director or club leader who knows their drama work well. These submissions will be reviewed by our Drama team.
2. In-Person Audition: Selected candidates will be invited to attend a fun and collaborative workshop, followed by
a friendly interview with our Director of Drama and other staff. We welcome applications from students who are passionate about drama - whether they plan to take it at A Level or have shown a strong commitment to co-curricular drama.
HOW ARE DRAMA SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED FOR SIXTH FORM APPLICANTS?
Students in Year 11 - whether currently at SWPS or applying from another school - are welcome to apply for a Drama Scholarship as part of their Sixth Form application. Once they’ve submitted their registration form and scholarship application, the Head of Drama will carefully review all entries. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to an audition day, where they will:
• Take part in a group drama workshop to showcase their collaborative and creative skills.
• Perform a prepared monologue that we will pass on in advance, focusing on voice, movement and expression. This should be learned in advance and performed without a script.
• Submit a short written response (up to 500 words) on a set drama-related topic, allowing them to express their passion and insight for the subject.
This process is designed to help students shine in a supportive and engaging setting, whether they dream of treading the boards or directing from behind the scenes.
MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS APPLICATION PROCESS
A photocopy of the sheet music and accompaniment should be submitted in advance. A professional accompanist is provided - there’s no need to bring your own.
SIXTH FORM MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS
• A photocopy of the sheet music and accompaniment should be submitted in advance.
• A school accompanist and short rehearsal time will be available on the day.
MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS –NURTURING EXCEPTIONAL MUSICAL TALENT
At Sir William Perkins’s School, we are delighted to offer Music Scholarships to students who not only meet our academic entrance standards but also demonstrate outstanding musical potential. These scholarships recognise dedication to music and carry up to a 10% remission on tuition fees.
Our music scholars play a vital role in school life, taking part in a vibrant co-curricular programme. They are expected to fully engage with musical opportunities— performing in ensembles such as orchestras, bands and choirs, and making the most of frequent concerts and events across the year.
HOW DOES A STUDENT APPLY FOR A MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP?
To apply, simply complete the Music Scholarship application form section on our main application form (for 11+, 13+ or 16+ entry). The deadline for Year 7, Year 9 and Sixth Form applications is 15 October in the year prior to entry.
WHAT TO EXPECT – YEAR 7 AND YEAR 9 SCHOLARSHIPS
The application process includes two stages: Stage 1 – Video Submission: Candidates submit a short performance video, accompanied by a reference from a current music teacher, director, or ensemble leader.
• Those applying with one instrument/ voice perform two contrasting pieces (around 3 minutes each).
• Those applying with two instruments/ voice present one piece on each, each lasting up to 3 minutes. Invitations to the live audition will be shared after the entrance assessment.
Stage 2 – Live Audition: Selected candidates will attend a 15-minute audition. They should prepare:
• Two contrasting pieces (totalling no more than 8 minutes), with at least one piece lasting 4 minutes.
• These can be the same pieces from the video submission or different ones - either is fine! During the audition, students will also complete a brief sightreading activity and enjoy an informal chat with the Music Department.
Music Scholarships are awarded based on both current achievement and musical potential. Candidates should ideally be working at Grade 4–5 standard, and performance should be of Distinction level. We understand that progress can vary depending on the instrument, so we also welcome applications from students whose piano playing is of an exceptionally high standard, or who are still developing on more specialised instruments.
Students applying for Sixth Form entry from SWPS or other schools may apply for a Music Scholarship as part of their general application.
What to Prepare:
• Two contrasting pieces, lasting around 6 minutes total.
• Candidates will also complete a short sight-reading and aural test, followed by a brief interview.
• We suggest candidates should be working at around Grade 7 standard, and we particularly welcome those offering rare or less commonly played instruments.
SPORT SCHOLARSHIPS APPLICATION PROCESS –
SPORT SCHOLARSHIPS –RECOGNISING TALENT AND SUPPORTING POTENTIAL
At Sir William Perkins’s School, we are proud to support students with outstanding sporting ability. Sport Scholarships are offered to students joining in either Year 7, Year 9 or Sixth Form who meet our standard academic entry criteria and show exceptional skill, passion and promise in sport. These awards are a mark of achievement and also include a reduction in tuition fees.
HOW DOES A STUDENT APPLY FOR A SPORT SCHOLARSHIP?
Applying is simple - just complete the Sport Scholarship application form on our admissions portal (for 11+, 13+ or 16+ entry). The deadline for Year 7, Year 9 and Sixth Form applications is 15 October in the year prior to entry.
HOW ARE SPORT SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED FOR YEAR 7 AND 9 APPLICANTS?
Once an application for a place in Year 7 or Year 9 has been submitted, students will be invited to a practical assessment.
We also require a reference from a teacher, coach or club leader who knows their sporting work well.
This is a fantastic opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability and enthusiasm across our core sports - Cricket, Football, Gymnastics, Hockey, Netball, and Rowing. Scholarships are awarded to candidates who show considerable talent and potential during the assessment process.
WHAT LEVEL IS REQUIRED FOR A SPORT SCHOLARSHIP?
Sport Scholars are expected to be committed, high-performing athletes and valued members of our school teams. They should demonstrate leadership qualities, strong teamwork and a positive attitude, representing SWPS with pride both on and off the field.
SIXTH
FORM SPORT SCHOLARSHIPS
Students in Year 11 - at SWPS or other schools - are welcome to apply for a Sport Scholarship when registering for Sixth Form. The assessment process mirrors that of Years 7 and 9 but also includes a one-toone interview with our Director of Sport. For Rowing Scholarships, students will also complete on-land fitness testing as part of the evaluation.
STEM SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT PROCESS
STEM SCHOLARSHIPS –SPARKING CURIOSITY AND CELEBRATING INNOVATION
At Sir William Perkins’s School, we’re passionate about inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and creators. STEM Scholarships are awarded to students joining in Year 7 or Year 9 who demonstrate both strong academic ability and a real enthusiasm for one or more of the STEM subjects—Science (including Computer Science), Design Technology, Engineering, and Maths.
These scholarships are both a mark of honour and include a tuition fee reduction in recognition of a student’s talent and potential.
HOW DOES A STUDENT APPLY FOR A STEM SCHOLARSHIP?
Applications can be made through the SWPS admissions portal. The deadline for submitting a STEM Scholarship application is 15 October in the year before entry.
WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
Candidates who fall within the top 10% of the Maths entrance assessment cohort will be considered, and we’re especially interested in students who show real curiosity in STEM - both in and outside of school. Whether it’s building projects at home, experimenting with code, or tackling challenges in science and maths, we love to see creative and inquisitive minds at work.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE ASSESSMENT
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a lively and interactive assessment session, which includes:
• A group problem-solving task, encouraging teamwork, logic and innovative thinking.
• An interview where students are invited to bring a personal project or artefact related to a STEM subject - this could be a design project, an experiment, a coding creation, or something crafted using CAD software.
• A chance to respond to a ‘big question’ (shared in advance) and other lateral thinking prompts to explore reasoning, imagination and insight.
Competition is high, but awards are made to those who show genuine creativity, problem-solving flair, and strong potential.
Students who receive a STEM Scholarship are expected to continue studying at least one STEM option subject throughout their time at SWPS.
