We offer a number of scholarships at 11+ to pupils who show outstanding potential.
All candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to, and enthusiasm for their chosen subject.
Candidates may only apply for one scholarship. This does not preclude them being considered for an academic scholarship. Only one scholarship will be awarded to a candidate, to the value of up to 25% of fees.
For further details on requirements and how to apply, please read the below information.
Scholarship Application Deadline: Friday 8 November 2024
Scholarship Assessment Day: Wednesday 22 January 2025 (Tuesday 4 February 2025 for Academic Scholarships)
Academic scholarships are awarded to candidates who demonstrate an outstanding performance in the entrance assessments and interview.
Selected candidates will be invited to an Academic Scholars Assessment Day on Tuesday 4 February 2025.
Art scholarships will be awarded to applicants who demonstrate exceptional creativity, technical skill and artistic enquiry.
Scholarship holders will be expected to participate actively in the life of the department, acting as artistic ambassadors at open events, clubs, exhibitions, intra- and inter-school competitions, at the annual Art Sale and as mentors to others. Art Scholars will be expected to pursue the subject at exam level and to demonstrate their passion for and dedication to the subject throughout their time at St James. The scholarship will require significant extra-curricular commitment.
On application, you will be asked to submit a digital portfolio of 10 images exhibiting strong drawing skills in a range of media, as well as other art forms such as painting, photography, digital media and sculpture.
Assessment Day
Shortlisted candidates will be given a timed drawing exercise, drawing from direct observation as well as a chance to make an artistic response to a given starting point before having a short interview with the Head of Art, during which they may go through their personal sketchbooks and artistic notes.
Artistic intention is held in high regard, rather than perfect/finished pieces. Inspiration may be found anywhere, whether from art, science, current events – we are keen to hear how your originality influences your creativity! We are looking for independent, adventurous creative spirits and are more interested in the development of ideas than the perfection of artist copies – having said this, successful candidates will demonstrate a keen contextual interest in the art world, such as evidence of visits to art galleries and museums. The work of an existing artist will be discussed at interview.
Drama scholars are talented performers who will play a leading role in all aspects of drama and Performing Arts at school and within the community.
Scholarships are awarded based on a candidate’s performance during an audition and interview with our Head of Drama. Drama scholars require focus, discipline, creativity and passion; not just talent. Therefore, we look at how candidates create, perform and respond in the audition, as well as their attitude and approach. Candidates do not need acting or musical theatre grades to be able to apply.
Assessment Day
The format of the audition will be designed to allow each pupil an equal opportunity regardless of experience. The auditions will be held in a small workshop group, offering each pupil the opportunity to perform individually and with others. The workshop will last approximately one hour.
Applicants will be also required to prepare a poem or monologue of no more than one minute in length for the audition.
Music scholars will be expected to contribute actively to the life of the music department, participating in ensembles and performances throughout the academic year.
Applicants are normally required to be at Grade 4 level in their main instrument or voice, although scholarships can also be awarded based on a candidate’s potential.
Assessment Day
The audition process aims to discover the candidate’s musical potential and ambitions, as well as their current standard.
The audition will consist of two prepared pieces, sight-reading and aural tests with the Head of Music.
Candidates should be actively involved in competitive sports across a variety of disciplines, both at school and club level. They are expected to participate in and represent St James in matches throughout the academic year.
Assessment Day
All applicants will be assessed in the following:
