Admissions

Scholarships and Bursaries

In order to be invited to a scholarship interview pupils must have performed well in the appropriate entrance examination.  The value of each scholarship is at the discretion of the Scholarship and Bursaries Committee, but can be up to a maximum of 20% of either day or part and full boarding fees (any further financial assistance may be obtained through means-tested bursary).  Pupils already attending the School do not need to apply for an award; any suitable candidates will be nominated by the relevant Head of Department for consideration at 13+ or 16+.

Academic Scholarships
11+
After sitting the Junior Entrance Examination in January, those who perform well are invited back for an interview with the Headmaster to be considered for a scholarship.

13+
Pupils must be recommended by their Preparatory School for scholarships at this level.  The examination is sat before the Common Entrance Examination (CEE) and we are happy to make practice papers available before then.  If a pupil is awarded a scholarship they do not have to sit the CEE.  Similarly, if pupils do well, but are not awarded a scholarship they may be excused the CEE.

The Continuation Scholarship
(applicable only to pupils of Sutton Valence Preparatory School)

This scholarship is intended to support well-motivated and able pupils through their final year (Year 6) at our Preparatory School and in their continued studies at the Senior School.  It is by invitation only and is aimed at those pupils who thrive in the ethos of our schools: a total curriculum that provides a first-class education in and out of the classroom.

Art, Design Technology and Music Scholarships
These are awarded at 11+, 13+ and 16+.  Pupils will be invited to come to Sutton Valence to work with the Head of Art, the Head of Design Technology or the Director of Music.

Sports Scholarships
Available at 11+, 13+ and 16+.  Pupils must be recommended by their current school and be able to demonstrate a record of outstanding ability in team sports, with the potential to represent the county in at least one major sport.

Drama Scholarships
Scholarships are available every year for pupils entering at 11+, 13+ and 16+.  Scholarships are awarded after an audition, interview and presentation of work, which will be prescribed by the Head of Drama and held during November and January.

The Westminster Scholarship
Pupils wishing to join the Sixth Form from another school and who are expected to gain five GCSE passes at grade ‘A*’ are eligible to apply for a scholarship of up to 20% of the day or boarding fee (any further financial assistance may be available through means-tested bursary).  The pupil must be able to demonstrate that they are able, well motivated and can contribute to the full life of the school. 

Scholarship Dates

Candidates may enter a maximum of two assessments only (excluding Academic awards)

HMC Scholarships

Sutton Valence School currently offers one HMC Scholarship every year.  From academic year 2010 the School will offer two.  For further information please follow the links below:

HMC Projects - The Student Scholarship Scheme

Bursaries
Bursaries are awarded according to financial need at the discretion of the Scholarship and Bursaries Committee, and are reviewed annually.  Forces bursaries are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply?
Scholarships and Exhibitions are available to candidates entering at 11+, 13+ and 16+ and who 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 requesting a Scholarship Application Form from the School Office.  The completed and signed Application Form must then be returned to the Admissions Office.  Please note that the closing date for applications is two weeks before the assessment date.

Do I need to speak with my child’s current Headteacher?
We do recommend that applications have the support of your child’s Headteacher or Head of Department.  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?
Candidates can apply for a maximum of two assessments only (excluding academic awards):   Academic (13+ only), Sports, Music, Drama, Art or Design and Technology Scholarship.  Assessments will include a brief interview or meeting with the Headmaster.   Any candidate applying for more than one scholarship may need to return to the School on more than one occasion.   Junior Academic Scholarships may be offered to those pupils who perform well in the Junior Entrance Examination.  These pupils will not have to sit another exam but they will be required for interview.

Is there a fee?
No.  You only need to pay the Registration Fee at the point of initial application to the School. 

How much funding will I receive?
The maximum individual or combined award is 20% of the fees, day or boarding.  Any further financial assistance may be obtained by means-tested bursary. 

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

How do I apply for a Bursary?
Forms are available from the Admissions Officer, Mrs Kathy Webster.  The application will be considered by the Scholarship and Bursary Committee.

Do you offer Forces' bursaries?
Yes, we do.  Please contact the Admissions Officer, Mrs Kathy Webster.

How long does a Bursary award last?
All bursaries are reviewed annually or before, dependant upon the terms of the award.

For further information and to obtain the necessary application forms, please contact Mrs Kathy Webster on 01622 845206.  The closing date for scholarship applications is two weeks before the relevant assessment date (please refer to Entrance Requirements and Exam Dates page for relevant scholarship assessment dates).