Scholarships Information

A Worth Scholarship recognises talent in Academic work, Sport, Music, Drama and Art and opens the door to the wealth of opportunities that come with it.

Scholarships at Worth – An Overview

Worth School offers scholarships in Academic, Sport, Music, Drama and Art for entry into Year 9 and Year 12. Academic scholarships are also available to exceptionally talented pupils for entry into Year 7.

Worth Scholarships recognise talent and potential and open the door to a wealth of additional programmes for pupils. The true value of a scholarship at Worth lies in the stretch and challenge our scholars experience both academically and beyond the classroom.

All scholars are offered a dedicated programme of enrichment and extension opportunities throughout the year whether that is via our lecture series, academic conferences, masterclasses, additional tuition and coaching. Scholars may be invited to perform or compete at high profile events and attend Scholars’ Question Time and Scholars’ Suppers.

Scholars will be ‘honoured’ with additional responsibilities and expected to contribute to wider school life as ambassadors for the school, taking part in open days, representing their discipline and to be an active member of the school community.

Scholars are held to a high standard of behaviour and are expected to demonstrate our Worth values, often mentoring younger pupils and setting an exemplary level of commitment and resilience.

Scholarships suit pupils who want to make the most of everything that Worth offers. So be prepared. Scholars are often the busiest, most dedicated and engaged pupils in the School, so if your child is looking for all the opportunities a school can offer them, then they will thrive here.

Entry points

Scholarships can be applied for on entry to Year 7, Year 9 or Year 12, and are also awarded at set points during the year to current pupils.

The School reserves the right to vary the number of awards according to the strength of applications.

Scholarships and Bursaries

Scholarships are separate from means-tested bursaries. Bursaries are awards which support families who could not otherwise afford some or all of the fees.

Scholarships do not carry an automatic fee remission in Years 7 to 11, they recognise excellence and commitment. Scholars in these years are expected to keep developing their talent, contribute positively to school life, demonstrate the Worth School values and uphold the standards expected of a Worth Scholar. Those who demonstrate the ability and character of a Worth Scholar may become eligible for a financial award on entering Year 12.

Scholarships for Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13) can carry a substantial financial award.

Current pupils in Year 11 do not need to apply or reapply for scholarship awards as these will be communicated in the Autumn Term.

Following GCSE results for our current pupils, further academic scholarships may be awarded at the start of Year 12, with financial awards taking effect in Year 13, depending on their commitment, achievement and service through their first Sixth Form year.

Families can apply for a means -tested bursary alongside a scholarship. Our Admissions team can offer guidance on this process.

New applicants must first register with Worth School, then complete the relevant Scholarship Application Form on the home Scholarships page here.

Tenure of an Award

Tenure of any award depends upon continued satisfactory performance, progress and behaviour. The School reserves the right to remove an award from a pupil (and any associated fee remission) if the pupil does not meet the standards and expectations of a Worth Scholar.

---

Current pupils

There is no requirement for current students to apply or reapply for a scholarship. At the end of each term, the scholarship committee will meet to discuss the selection of new internal scholars. These will then be announced by the Head. Any financial awards will be communicated to parents by the Head.

For Sixth Form scholarships our current Year 11 pupils do not need to reapply. Scholarship awards will be communicated during the Autumn Term. Further academic scholarships may be awarded at the start of Year 12, based on GCSE results, with the financial award following in Year 13.

---

External Candidates

Academic Scholarships (Year 7, 9 and 12)

All applicants sit the CAT4 assessment as part of our standard admissions process or provide an existing CAT4 score if one has already been taken at their current prep school. Candidates applying for an Academic Scholarship will be expected to have achieve a CAT4 score of 120 or above.

Our Academic team reviews CAT4 results and candidates meeting the required standard are invited to an Academic Scholarship Assessment Day in early December. A reference from the candidate’s current Head teacher will be requested before the Scholarship Day. CAT4 forms only one part of the broader assessment of academic potential, intellectual curiosity and readiness to contribute to the academic life of the School.

The scholarship assessment takes place at Worth School. Candidates sit one written paper and take part in small-group discussions.

We are looking for intellectual curiosity, agility of thought and a willingness to engage constructively with others. Our assessment is designed to identify future academic promise rather than reward extensive preparation.

Assessment Process (Year 7, 9 and 12)

The assessment takes place at Worth School.

• A reference from the candidate’s current Head will be requested before the assessment day.
• Critical thinking paper: 90 minutes, divided into three parts. No preparation is required.
• Group discussion: candidates then discuss questions in small groups. This assesses their agility to develop arguments with little preparation, listen carefully and respond constructively to others.

A short interview with a member of the Academic team may be held in place of, or in addition to, the discussion group.

We understand that it is not always possible for international families to travel to the UK. In these circumstances, we can arrange for the Academic Scholarship papers and interview to be carried out remotely.

Sports scholarships

To gain a Sport Scholarship at Worth School, a candidate will need to be outstanding in at least two sports. A reference from the current school Head will be requested prior to interview, in which specific achievements should be referenced.

Our Sports Scholarship programme aims to develop the sport specific components which are necessary for elite performance. This includes the development of:

• Technical skills by qualified and experienced coaches
• Tactical/game awareness and performance under pressure by qualified and experienced coaches
• Physical preparation (strength and conditioning) by qualified and experienced coaches
• General and performance nutrition and recovery education
• Injury prevention programming and education
• Sports psychology education
• Athlete mentoring programme
• Supplement, anti-doping education and advice
• Links with elite sports institutions

Assessment process (Year 9)

Awards are made to candidates who, while being academically ambitious, can make a significant contribution to the sporting success of the School. Scholarships are available for athletics, cricket, football, golf, hockey, netball, rugby and tennis.

Criteria

It is likely that successful applicants will currently be playing one of the major games to at least district/county level or above. They will have made a significant contribution to the life of their current school and are expected to make the same commitment to Worth. They will also be expected to contribute to major games other than their preferred sport and, in doing so, be a role model for others.

Those selected will be expected to show initiative and possess strong personal qualities of leadership, morality, fair play and loyalty. They will have a strong desire to succeed and work well with other team players. Award holders will be expected to satisfy the School’s normal entrance requirements at the appropriate stage.

The scholarship assessment day will involve a series of practical tests, including general fitness and a one-hour assessment in each of the above sports that a candidate is offering. They will also be interviewed by the Senior School Director of Sport.

Assessment method (Year 9)

• Age-appropriate fitness tests (strength, agility, co-ordination, speed, endurance)
• Sport-specific assessments in at least two sports
• Short interview with a member of sports staff
• Supporting portfolio and letter of application

Assessment process (Year 12)

Awards are made to candidates who, while being academically ambitious, can make a significant contribution to the sporting success of the School. Scholarships are available for athletics, cricket, football, golf, hockey, netball, rugby and tennis.

Criteria

It is likely that successful applicants will currently be playing one of the major games to at least district/county level or above, such as a recognised Performance Pathway associated with a professional club. They will have made a significant contribution to the life of their current school and are expected to make the same commitment to Worth. They will also be expected to contribute to major games other than their preferred sport and, in doing so, provide a role model for others.

Those selected will be expected to show initiative and possess strong personal qualities of leadership, morality, fair play and loyalty. They will have a strong desire to succeed and collaborate well with other team players. Award holders will be expected to satisfy the School’s normal entrance requirements at the appropriate stage.

Assessment Method (Year 12)

• Age-appropriate fitness tests (strength, agility, co-ordination, speed, endurance)
• Sport specific assessment in major sport
• Interview with a member of sports staff
• Supporting portfolio and letter of application

Music Scholarships

To gain a Music Scholarship, the candidate must have a genuine interest in or passion for music as well as demonstrating real musical achievement or exceptional promise. Associated Board Grade 5 will be taken as a guide to the minimum standard expected if only one instrument is offered. Lesser achievement in more areas of activity (including singing) may also impress the panel and lead to an award, especially if there is clear potential for musical growth. Awards will be offered based on the candidate’s performance during the assessment.

Candidates who compose are encouraged to submit examples of their composition work along with their application forms.

Candidates who are awarded a scholarship will be offered free instrumental tuition on at least one instrument.

Music Scholars will be expected to take Music GCSE.

Year 9

Associated Board Grade 5 will be taken as a guide to the minimum standard expected if only one instrument is offered. Lesser achievement in more areas of activity (including singing) may also impress the panel and lead to an award, especially if there is clear potential for musical growth. Awards will be offered based on the candidate’s performance during the assessment.

Criteria

• Present two instruments (voice counts): Grade 5 (1st), Grade 2 (2nd)
• OR one instrument at Grade 6+ (voice counts) if only offering one
• Potential is as important as grades achieved and candidates need not have passed the relevant grade exams if they are performing at the right level

Year 12

Criteria

• Two instruments (voice counts): Grade 7 (1st), Grade 4 (2nd)
• OR one instrument at Grade 8 (voice counts) if only offering one
• Potential is as important as grades achieved, and candidates need not have passed the relevant grade exams if they are performing at the right level

Assessment method (Year 9 and 12))

Interview and audition, comprising the following activities:

• Performance of a solo piece (with or without piano accompaniment. Accompaniment can be provided by the Director of Music) on each instrument/voice being offered. The piece should give a good representation of the candidate’s current level of playing ability
• Quick sight reading study on one of the candidate’s instruments/voices. Candidates will be given a short piece of music equivalent in difficulty to the sight-reading tests of the grade they are performing at. They will have five minutes to study and practise the piece before performing it. Vocal quick studies will be with piano accompaniment
• Aural tests (appropriate to the candidate’s current level of performing ability,  including for all candidates, singing back a short phrase of music, identifying changes between two versions of the same short piece, singing notes from a chord)
• Interview on the candidate’s musical interests, experience, motivation for applying for a scholarship and knowledge of what is expected of scholarship award holders
• Discussion of what Worth can offer the candidate musically and opportunity for questions
• Portfolio of certificates/references

Drama Scholarships

At Worth, Drama is about more than the stage. It builds confidence, creativity and the ability to work with others, qualities that stay with our pupils long after the final curtain. Our Drama Scholarship recognises young people with real talent and a genuine passion for performance, whether as actors, directors, designers or storytellers.

Scholars become central to the life of the School’s Drama department, taking on leading roles in productions, contributing ideas and inspiring those around them. They receive coaching and guidance and enjoy opportunities to perform in a variety of settings, all within a warm and supportive community that celebrates the arts.

If you love to perform, create and take risks, we would be delighted to see what you can bring to Worth.

Year 9

Criteria

• Has a proven track record of taking part and being a lead role in either school productions or other productions from an early age
• Has seen a range of live theatre

Expectations

• Audition for the school production and be a role model for other students
• Be part of Inspire Theatre Company and be part of the Drama scholar community working on community projects
• Be available to help with all the front of house duties for the other productions within the year
• Be able to represent the Drama department on open days, assemblies and promotional videos
• Take GCSE Drama

Year 12

Criteria

• Has a proven track record of taking part in either school productions or other productions from an early age and having a lead role
• Has seen a range of live theatre
• Is working towards a professional career in the industry (eg. singing, dance, acting, LAMDA lessons)

Expectations

• Audition for the school production and be a role model for other students
• Be part of Inspire Theatre Company and be part of the Drama scholar community working on community project and lead the younger drama scholars
• Be available to help with and organise all of the front of house duties for the other productions within the year
• Be able to represent the Drama department on open days, assemblies and promotional videos
• Be able to support the social outreach activities often taking on a responsibility with the planning and delivery
• Help direct one of the junior productions alongside the director and attend all rehearsals
• Study A Level Drama where appropriate

Assessment Method (Year 9 and 12)

• Short interview with Head of Drama and presentation of portfolio (students to bring this with them)
• Perform a 2-minute monologue – scripted choice from any genre of script
• Perform a 1-minute monologue – devised choice, written by student on something they feel passionate about
• Q&A with Head of Drama and current Drama prefects/scholars

Art Scholarships

At Worth, Art is a way of seeing the world differently. It encourages curiosity, patience and the courage to try something new, qualities that serve our pupils well in whatever they go on to do. Our Art Scholarship recognises young people with creative potential, artistic talent and a genuine commitment to their work, whether in drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography or design.

Art Scholars become valued members of the School’s creative community, with the chance to develop their own ideas and take on ambitious projects. They benefit from specialist guidance and opportunities to exhibit their work, all within an environment that celebrates the visual arts and encourages every pupil to find their own style.

If you want to express yourself through art, experiment and look closely at the world around you, we would be delighted to see your work.

Expectations of Art Scholars

• Take part in our Art Scholars’ programme throughout the year
• Enter art competitions chosen by the Visual Arts department
• Show work in our annual Art Scholars’ exhibition and support other exhibitions and events
• Get involved in extracurricular art opportunities
• Act as ambassadors for the Visual Arts department
• Keep developing your skills beyond the classroom

You will study:

• Year 9 entry: GCSE Fine Art or GCSE Photography
• Year 12 entry: A Level Fine Art or IB Visual Arts (Higher or Standard Level)

Assessment method (Year 9 and 12 – submission of portfolio in advance)

• Include up to 10 artworks, made in and outside the classroom
• Show a range of media, such as drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture/3D, digital art, textiles, mixed media or personal projects
• Submit it as one PDF labelled with your full name, with no more than 10 slides
• You can design it in PowerPoint, Google Slides, Canva or similar
• Make sure your photos are clear, well-lit and high resolution
• Short notes about your ideas, influences or process are welcome

Observed drawing task

You will have one hour to complete an observational drawing using materials of your choice. We will look at accuracy, composition, your use of tone, line and form, how confidently you handle materials and your creative interpretation.

How we mark it:

• Portfolio: 40 marks
• Observed drawing task: 30 marks
• Interview and portfolio discussion: 30 marks

Total: 100 marks.

Interview and portfolio discussion:

Bring a printed copy of your portfolio. We will discuss your work, the artists and exhibitions that inspire you, and how you would like to get involved in promoting and developing art at Worth. It is a supportive conversation, not a test.

Head’s Scholarship

The Head’s Scholarship award is for new applicants, or current pupils, who have not been awarded one of the named scholarships but has shown considerable ability and character across more than one element, has been awarded more than one named scholarship or impressed the panel during an assessment day.