SVS Scholarships Guide

Recognising potential.

Since 1576.

SCHOLARSHIP GUIDE AT SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

SINCE 1576

02 / 03

Sutton Valence School Scholarships Scholarships are awarded to pupils joining First Form (11+), Third Form (13+) or the Lower Sixth (16+) who show outstanding ability and potential in one or more of the following areas – Academic, Art, Design and Technology, Drama, Music or Sport. Further details of expectations and assessments are shown over the following pages.

To apply for a scholarship please review the scholarship deadline on the School’s website and apply through the relevant online form. Once an application has been received the School will request references ahead of the assessment day. Full details of the assessment dates are available on the School’s website.

Confirmation of scholarship applications will be provided to families alongside detailed information of scholarship assessment arrangements.

For more information, please contact Heidi Skinner (Admissions Officer) on +44 (0)1622 845206 or by emailing admissions@svs.org.uk

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

Academic Scholarships During their time at Sutton Valence School, Academic Scholars are guided to meet their full potential in terms of examination results at GCSE and A Level. With the expert assistance of their Tutor, Housemaster or Housemistress and individual Heads of Department, they will be challenged and encouraged to excel.

Academically their progress is also monitored by the Head of Academic Enrichment to ensure that appropriate levels of effort and achievement are being maintained.

In the cultural and social sphere of School life, their experience and knowledge are extended through the Kingdon Society, a society of academic scholars which benefit from lectures for all age groups throughout the academic year. Our excellent pupil to staff ratio aims to guarantee our Scholars the personal and professional attention their talents deserve.

The Head of Academic Enrichment provides leadership and support for all Academic Scholars. Consequently, the School builds a strong sense of community amongst its Scholars; developing pride in their academic achievements and enhancing and promoting their profile within the whole School community, where all delight in their achievement. In addition, the Head of Academic Enrichment acts as the ‘champion’ of these pupils and of all high-achieving pupils within the School by creating and sustaining positive attitudes towards them and ensuring good provision for them.

Expectations The School has the following expectations of Academic Scholars:

• To achieve the highest possible academic standards across the range

of disciplines which will be demonstrated through consistently high effort and attainment grades over monitoring periods; • To set a positive example to their peers regarding dress, punctuality and demeanour. Scholars will be respectful and helpful to all pupils, staff and visitors to the School; • To arrive to every lesson promptly with all of the appropriate equipment and be ready to take a leading role within the classroom environment and in the year group generally; • To be able to undertake independent work to support their studies in the classroom; • To participate in ‘in-house’ and national academic competitions at appropriate times of the year.

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In addition, individual subject Scholars are expected:

• To embody the Scholars’ Charter with its focus on being curious, critical and committed;

• To achieve the highest possible academic standards and maintain high effort grades;

• To plan and be available for all scholarship subject commitments; • To put the School before outside activities.

Benefits In return for their efforts, Academic Scholars will be:

• Invited to attend the Kingdon Society to hear guest speakers on various topics once per term;

• Invited to our weekly programme of ‘Fairley Talks’; • Provided with a programme that stretches and monitors their academic progress whilst also nurturing their broader development;

• Encouraged to put themselves forward for the Subject Ambassadors programme;

• Invited to compete in school and inter-school academic competitions.

Assessment For First Form (Year 7) entry, applicants who have performed particularly well in their ISEB Common Pre-Test will be invited for an Academic Scholarship interview with the Head of Senior School and Head of Academic Enrichment.

For Third Form (Year 9) entry, applicants will spend a day at Sutton Valence School, sitting Academic Scholarship assessments in English, Mathematics, Science and either French or Spanish, as well as having an Academic Scholarship interview with the Head of Senior School and Head of Academic Enrichment.

For Lower Sixth (Year 12) entry, Academic Scholarships (also known as Westminster Scholarships) aim to support well-motivated and academically able pupils who are looking to transfer to the School at Sixth Form level.

Applicants are expected to achieve outstanding GCSE results.

More Information The Head of Academic Enrichment will be happy to discuss any of the above information or to meet prospective scholarship candidates and their parents.

Email Mark Shuttleworth (Head of Academic Enrichment): shuttleworthm@svs.org.uk

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

Art Scholarships The Sutton Valence School Art Department is a thriving and vibrant creative hub, where curiosity, experimentation and technical excellence are actively encouraged. We aim to nurture confident, thoughtful young artists who are able to express ideas with originality, sensitivity and skill.

Housed in Gulland Hall, our dedicated Art centre offers well-equipped, light-filled studios, providing an inspiring environment for pupils to explore a wide range of disciplines, including fine art, painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, photography and digital media. From their earliest lessons, pupils are encouraged to take creative risks, develop personal responses and engage critically with the world around them.

We take pride in combining rigorous technical teaching with a deep appreciation of art history and contemporary practice. Pupils are regularly introduced to a wide range of artists, designers and movements, enabling them to contextualise their work within broader cultural and historical frameworks.

Expectations Our scholars play a leading role within the department and the School has the following expectations of Art Scholars:

• To demonstrate exceptional commitment, creativity and independence, contributing to the artistic life of the school through exhibitions and competitions; • To be actively engaged in all aspects of the subject and to provide a positive example for those around them; mentoring younger pupils and pursuing ambitious personal projects; • To attend Open Mornings and other School events where Art is being showcased.

Benefits Beyond the classroom, the department offers a broad programme of enrichment. In return for their efforts, Art Scholars will be:

• Supported through tailored guidance, additional studio access and opportunities to develop portfolios for further study;

• Engaged through an Art Scholarship forum on Teams where pupils

can upload examples of work, share ideas and access opportunities and initiatives.

• Provided with opportunities to visit galleries, artist workshops, hear talks from young and established artists and attend subject-based workshops; • Exhibit work both within school and in external competitions.

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SVS continues to provide exciting opportunities for Art Scholars and the consistently high results they achieve at GCSE and A Level provide excellent foundations for future progression. Many of our pupils go on to study art, architecture and design at leading universities, specialist institutions and prestigious art schools.

Above all, the Art Department seeks to foster a lifelong appreciation of the visual arts and the confidence to think creatively in any field.

Assessment Candidates will be asked to come to the School for a short practical session and interview with the Head of Art. They will be expected to bring with them a portfolio of their own work as well as any larger or sculptural pieces. This session will last about an hour.

As part of the assessment, all candidates will have a short meeting with the Head of Senior School or a member of the Senior Management Team.

All awards will be dependent upon:

• A demonstration of considerable natural ability in drawing, painting and/ or other artistic disciplines, including an aptitude for working directly from observation.

• A broad and diverse portfolio that demonstrates conviction, resilience, and a genuine passion for the subject.

• A strong sense of ‘self’ (being aware of one’s own strengths, weaknesses, and areas of particular interest).

We strongly recommend that you consult with the Art department at your child’s current school for guidance as to whether they meet the required criteria and standard expected of a scholarship applicant.

More Information The Head of Art, Martin Thompson, will be happy to discuss any of the above information or to meet prospective scholarship candidates and their parents.

Email Martin Thompson (Head of Art): thompsonm@svs.org.uk

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

Design and Technology Scholarships At Sutton Valence School, Design and Technology is a dynamic and forward-thinking department where creativity, innovation and technical excellence come together. Our scholarship programme recognises pupils who demonstrate exceptional curiosity, originality and a passion for solving real-world problems through design.

Scholars are encouraged to think critically and work confidently across a broad range of disciplines, with a focus on product design. From the outset, they develop a strong foundation in design thinking; identifying and investigating design possibilities, generating a design brief and specification, creating and developing design ideas, prototyping, analysing and evaluating, supported by a culture that values experimentation, resilience and intellectual independence.

Expectations It is expected that candidates will have acquired theoretical knowledge and understanding, and technical skill, appropriate to their age and in relation to the National Curriculum requirements. Candidates should have exceptional ability in the following areas:

• Designing and manufacturing skills; • Technical understanding and application of knowledge; • Product analysis and evaluation; • Problem solving; • Creativity, imagination and innovation; • Graphical presentation and communication; • Strong mathematical skills.

Design and Technology Scholars are expected to make a positive contribution to the department and to demonstrate the highest standards of creativity, independence, effort and conduct. Scholars should show genuine enthusiasm for the subject, a willingness to develop their skills beyond the classroom, and a commitment to supporting others. They should demonstrate they are able:

• To work independently, applying knowledge of materials, processes and techniques with confidence and accuracy;

• To research, plan, create, test, reflect and refine products to suit different needs and requirements;

• To show precision, care and accuracy when using tools, equipment, machinery and digital processes;

• To work safely and responsibly, showing excellent awareness of health and safety;

• To problem solve effectively, identifying issues and exercise critical thinking, avoiding design fixation;

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• To communicate high-quality ideas clearly through sketching, modelling, CAD, annotation and written explanation;

• To be receptive to constructive feedback throughout the design process and use it effectively to inform design developments.

DT Scholars should exhibit a consistently high standard in all Design and Technology lessons and department activities. They should:

• Set a positive example to peers through their attitude, behaviour, punctuality and organisation.

• Show pride in the quality, presentation and completion of their work.

• Approach challenges with resilience, curiosity and a willingness to improve.

• Meet deadlines and manage their time effectively.

• Demonstrate maturity, responsibility and leadership within the department.

• Act as an ambassador for Design and Technology within the wider school community.

DT Scholars should actively engage with opportunities that extend their learning beyond normal lessons. They should be willing to:

• Take part in Design and Technology competitions, clubs, enrichment activities or wider school projects.

• Support department events such as open mornings, option evenings, exhibitions and the Design Show.

• Contribute to displays, department publicity, team posts or examples of excellent work.

• Share their enthusiasm for Design and Technology through presentations, assemblies or House activities when appropriate.

• Explore the work of designers, engineers, architects and other creative

professionals, considering how Design and Technology connects to industry, innovation, sustainability and real-world problem solving.

• Serve as a role model, inspiring and supporting your peers and the wider school community.

Benefits To support the development of Design Technology scholars, the Design Technology department offers:

• Additional support in areas relevant to their development such as product design, engineering and other design related fields.

• Opportunities to develop skills across all aspects of the Design and Technology curriculum.

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

• Scope to enter internal and/or external competitions.

• An enriching and inspiring learning environment both within the department and through organised external trips and visits.

Design & Technology at SVS is a subject that encourages pupils to think carefully, solve problems with confidence and apply their ideas, skills and knowledge in meaningful ways, helping them to appreciate the important role that Design and Technology plays beyond the classroom and in the wider world.

Assessment Candidates applying for a DT scholarship will be expected to compile and submit a portfolio of work. This work should be made up from coursework undertaken at school, as well as any work compiled outside of the classroom as part of a hobby or interest. The portfolio should demonstrate all areas of the design process and can be presented in any appropriate format.

After the Head of Department has viewed the portfolio submission, candidates may be asked to come to the school for a formal written and design assessment and interview with the Head of Design and Technology.

They will be expected to bring with them any additional design work they wish to discuss alongside the already submitted portfolio.

As part of the assessment, all candidates will have a short meeting with the Head of Senior School or a member of the Senior Management Team.

All awards will be dependent on candidates demonstrating proficiency in all areas outlined in the ‘Expectations of DT candidates’ section aforementioned. Candidates will be expected to demonstrate these skills across all aspects of the interview process, inclusive of the portfolio submission, the formal assessment and communicated during interview.

We strongly recommend that you consult with the Head of Design and Technology at your child’s current school for guidance as to whether they meet the required criteria and standard expected of a scholarship applicant.

More Information The Head of Design and Technology, Mr Simon Kirk, will be happy to discuss any of the above information or to meet prospective scholarship candidates and their parents.

Email Simon Kirk (Head of Design and Technology): kirks@svs.org.uk

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SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

Drama Scholarships Drama at Sutton Valence School is dynamic, ambitious and inclusive, offering pupils the opportunity to develop as confident performers, creative thinkers and collaborative artists. Rooted in a belief that theatre is both an art form and a powerful vehicle for personal growth, our department inspires pupils to take intellectual and creative risks while refining their technical and performance skills.

A Drama Scholarship is awarded to pupils who demonstrate exceptional potential, enthusiasm and commitment to theatre. Scholars are expected to play an active and positive role within the department, contributing fully to productions, choosing the subject for further study and acting as ambassadors for drama across the school community.

Our Drama Scholars are challenged to extend well beyond the curriculum: engaging with complex texts, devising original work and developing their own artistic voice. The department fosters curiosity, discipline and resilience—qualities that enable pupils to excel both on and off the stage.

Expectations Our scholars play a leading role within the department. As such, the School has the following expectations of Drama Scholars:

• To participate regularly in school productions, showcases and relevant co-curricular activities;

• To attend Open Mornings and other key School events where Drama is featured;

• To show a commitment to rehearsals, workshops and enrichment opportunities;

• To select Drama for further study where possible; • To act as ambassadors for Drama, including mentoring and supporting younger pupils;

• To demonstrate sustained enthusiasm, reliability and a willingness to contribute creatively.

Benefits In recognition of their commitment, Drama Scholars benefit from a rich and varied programme of opportunities, including:

• Funded 1-1 or 1-2 LAMDA tuition; • Access to specialist workshops with visiting practitioners and theatre professionals;

• Opportunities to attend theatre trips and live performances; • Enhanced consideration for major productions and performance opportunities;

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• Opportunities to develop directing, devising and leadership skills; • Individual guidance and mentoring to support artistic development.

Assessment As part of their assessment, all applicants are required to prepare two contrasting pieces from the list below, one of which must be from a play:

• Two contrasting monologues (any style or period) OR • One monologue (any style) And either:

• A musical theatre excerpt (song and/or spoken extract) OR • A prepared dance (if relevant to the candidate’s strengths) Candidates must provide their own music or send music files where appropriate. Pieces must be performed from memory and should allow for clear dramatic interpretation. The total performance time should not exceed five minutes.

The chosen pieces should be suitably contrasting in style, character and tone to demonstrate a breadth of performance skills. If presenting a musical or dance piece, candidates should demonstrate clear characterisation and performance intention. Poetry is not recommended, as it often limits opportunities for dramatic interaction and character development.

All applicants may also be required:

• To participate in a group workshop; • To perform their pieces in front of a small group; • To take part in a short discussion about their chosen material.

As part of the assessment process, all candidates will also have a short meeting with the Head of Senior School or a member of the Senior Management Team.

Awards Drama Scholarships are awarded to candidates who demonstrate:

• Strong performance potential and stage presence; • A clear understanding of character and text; • Creative instinct and a willingness to take risks; • Enthusiasm for collaboration and ensemble work; • Commitment to developing their skills both within and beyond the curriculum.

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

We strongly recommend that you consult with the Drama department at your child’s current school for guidance on whether they meet the required standard for a scholarship application.

More Information The Director of Drama, Ben Fewson, would be delighted to discuss the scholarship process, or to meet prospective candidates and their families.

Email Ben Fewson (Director of Drama): fewsonb@svs.org.uk

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SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

Music Scholarships All Music Scholars will be expected to actively participate in the School’s wide range of musical activities. These will include Chapel Choir for both instrumental and choral award holders and Orchestra for instrumental award holders. Involvement in Chamber Ensembles, where appropriate, will be encouraged.

Instrumental Awards Candidates are expected to be of Grade 4 standard.

Orchestral players will be particularly welcome. Ideally candidates will offer either two instruments or one instrument and voice.

The audition will comprise: • Performance of one piece on principal instrument; • Sight reading and aural tests; • Performance of one piece on second instrument or voice; • General music interview including discussion of past musical activities and future ambitions.

Choral Awards Candidates are expected to be of Grade 3 standard.

Please note that we are aware that many children do not take formal singing lessons. It is suggested that the Associated Board syllabus for the appropriate grade is consulted when selecting audition pieces. Successful candidates must show clear potential.

The audition will comprise: • P erformance of one accompanied piece (accompanist will be provided); • P erformance of one unaccompanied folksong; • S ight reading and aural tests; eneral musical interview, including discussion of past musical activities •G and future ambitions.

As part of the assessment, all candidates will have a short meeting with the Headmaster or the Senior Management Team.

The Director of Music, Dr Tom Edwards, will be happy to discuss any of the above information or to meet prospective scholarship candidates and their parents.

Email Dr Tom Edwards (Director of Music): edwardst@svs.org.uk

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SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

Sport Scholarships Sutton Valence School offers an exceptional and ambitious sports programme designed to nurture talent, character and a lifelong love of physical activity. With outstanding facilities, specialist coaching staff and a commitment to excellence, pupils benefit from a breadth of opportunities across traditional team sports such as rugby, hockey, cricket and netball, alongside individual pursuits including athletics, swimming and tennis.

Our high-performance Sport Scholarship pathway supports aspiring athletes competing at, and on a pathway to, county and national level.

Enrichment fixtures, overseas tours and strength and conditioning programmes further enhance the experience, making sport a central and celebrated part of life at SVS. Expectations Our Sport Scholars play a leading role within the Sport department and the School has the following expectations of them:

• To lead by example and strive for excellence in all aspects of School life; • To show a commitment to sports fixtures (where selected); • To attend strength and conditioning sessions weekly; • To participate in workshops and meetings with advisers and coaches; • To attend Open Mornings and other School events where Sport is showcased.

Benefits Beyond the classroom, the department offers a rich programme of enrichment. In return for their efforts Sport Scholars will be:

• Invited to attend termly Sports Award pupil meetings and lectures taking place on aspects of sports performance such as sports nutrition, hydration and sleep guidance; • Provided with access to expert coaching across the major sports; • Receive tailored strength and conditioning programmes.

Assessment Applicants applying for First Form (Year 7) and Third Form (Year 9) scholarships will be invited to attend an assessment day in which candidates will be asked to take part in fitness tests and training sessions in the following sports:

• Boys - Rugby, Hockey, Cricket, Tennis and Swimming • Girls – Hockey, Netball, Cricket, Tennis and Swimming

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Lower Sixth (Year 12) applicants will usually be focused upon one sport and will be invited to attend an assessment session with the relevant Head of Department for that sport. As part of the assessment, all candidates will have a short meeting with the Head of Senior School or another member of the Senior Management Team.

Sports Scholarships are competitive and are likely to be awarded to applicants with strong performances in more than one sport and who are currently performing at county standard in one major sport.

Sports Exhibitions may be awarded to candidates who have demonstrated the potential to reach county standard in one major sport.

(NB) The School’s major sports are Rugby, Hockey, Cricket, Netball and Tennis. Candidates in more specialist Sports must be a national standard player/competitor in that sport.

All awards will be dependent upon candidates meeting set criteria depending upon their year group of entry.

We strongly recommend that you consult with the Director of Sport at your child’s current school or sports coach for guidance as to whether they meet the required criteria and standard expected of a scholarship applicant.

More Information The Director of Sport will be happy to discuss any of the above information or to meet prospective scholarship candidates and their parents.

Email Vince Wells (Director of Sport): wellsv@svs.org.uk

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply?

Scholarships and Exhibitions are available to candidates entering at First Form (Year 7), Third Form (Year 9) and the Lower Sixth (Year 12). Applicants will need to be available to come to the School on specific dates for assessment during the academic year prior to entry. Internal candidates cannot apply but can be recommended by the respective Head of Department.

How do I apply?

All candidates must be registered with the School before applying for a scholarship. To formally register your child, please complete the online Registration Form found on the School’s website. Once this been completed, parents or guardians should then complete the Scholarship Application Form, which is also accessible on the website. Please note that the closing date for applications is normally two weeks before the assessment date.

Do I need to speak with my child’s current Headteacher?

We recommend that applications have the support of your child’s Headteacher or Head of Department (for the respective discipline). Just before the assessment date, we will write to your child’s school for a reference.

Can my child apply for more than one scholarship?

Pupils may apply for up to three scholarships, as long as one of those is an Academic Scholarship. If you are not applying for an Academic Scholarship, you are limited to a maximum of two applications. Assessments will include a brief interview or meeting with the Head of Senior School. Any candidate applying for more than one scholarship may need to return to the School on more than one occasion.

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How long will the scholarship assessments be?

Applicants should allow half a day to attend the assessment day unless they are attending the 13+ academic scholarship assessment, the 11+ sport scholarship assessment or the 13+ sport scholarship assessment, which will require a full day at Sutton Valence.

Is there a fee?

No. You only need to pay the non-refundable Registration Fee at the point of initial application to the School.

How much funding will I receive?

Individual subject awards are generous. The value of each scholarship is at the discretion of the Headmaster with the percentage offered being applicable to either day, full or part-boarding fees. Usually, scholarship awards carry a 20 per cent fee remission and exhibition awards offer a 10 per cent fee remission.

Holders of an Academic Scholarship who also gain an individual subject award may have their total percentage increased to up to twice the value of the individual subject award. Holders of non-Academic Scholarships (maximum two) may be awarded a maximum of 20 per cent in total. Any further financial assistance may be available via a means-tested bursary.

How long will the awards last?

The scholarship awards will last for the duration of the pupil’s time at the School, provided they fulfil the criteria of the award.

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL

SINCE 1576

Admissions Team

MR WILL RADFORD

MRS HEIDI SKINNER

MRS DONNA CHILD

Director of Admissions and Development radfordw@svs.org.uk

Admissions Officer skinnerh@svs.org.uk

Admissions Assistant childd@svs.org.uk

Mr Radford manages our team, which includes all international admissions.

Working with colleagues driving recruitment, his role oversees the conversion of applicants to pupils.

Mrs Skinner is the first point of contact for agents enquiring about places at Sutton Valence School and for all queries regarding the Admissions process.

Mrs Child is also able to answer any queries you have along the admissions process, as well as send any documentation you will need to complete for each child.

Main Contact Details admissions@svs.org.uk +44 (0)1622 845200

Sutton Valence School North Street Sutton Valence Maidstone Kent ME17 3HL +44 (0)1622 845200 enquiries@svs.org.uk

SVS.ORG.UK A member of The United Westminster and Grey Coat Foundation Registered Charity No. 1181012 Founded in 1576 by William Lambe