Academic Scholarships
"As Academic Scholars, we are encouraged not only to expand our knowledge beyond the curriculum, but also to think critically and find links between different areas of study. In the Sixth Form, I particularly enjoy getting the opportunity to be a role model to the younger scholars through the mentor programme."
Sophie, L6 Porcher Academic Scholar 2021
Our Academic Scholars come from a wide range of different educational backgrounds. Some join us from the state sector, others joined us lower down the Senior School, and others come from further afield, either from elsewhere in the UK or abroad.
We are not looking for information and knowledge amassed, or even raw test scores — we are looking for a truly exceptional attitude to learning, displayed through the demonstration of:
- intellectual curiosity above and beyond work set in class
- the ability and inclination to learn independently
- a strong desire to extend personal knowledge
- the ability to clearly articulate and demonstrate thinking skills
What do we offer?
- A Scholarship Mentoring Programme
- After-school lectures and seminars exploring topics from a cross-curricular perspective
- The opportunity to mentor a younger scholar, developing wider skills of leadership, communication and teamwork.
- For U6 scholars, the responsibility for coordinating scholars’ after-school lectures and master classes
- Opportunities to attend off-site scholars’ trips
- Our annual Scholars’ Dinner celebrating achievement and commitment
What do we expect from our Academic Scholars?
- High attainment and engagement in all their subjects
- Excellent examination results
- Involvement in enrichment activities inside and outside of school, for example, clubs and societies, competitions and lectures
How do I apply?
External applicants
All prospective Sixth Form scholars must first complete the entrance assessments for entry, either in the UK on Entrance Day on Saturday 8th November 2025, or overseas within the assessment window of Friday 31st October to Monday 3rd November 2025. Entrance examinations include a general Mathematics paper, a comprehension paper, an essay writing paper and an interview on the subjects they wish to study. The highest-performing candidates in the entrance assessments will subsequently be invited to take part in the academic scholarship selection process. This consists of a written paper and an interview with a senior staff member.
Existing students
Existing students (including those already holding a scholarship) who wish to be considered will need to register their interest for an academic scholarship by completing the appropriate form sent to them by the Headmistress in the Autumn Term. Assessments will then take place during the school week.
Assessment and selection
The scholarship assessment involves a written task in response to a stimulus and an interview with senior academic members of staff. Existing students will be considered on the basis of the scholarship assessment results and their academic profile to date. The highest performing academic scholarship candidate will be awarded The Porcher Academic Special Award, which is worth 10 per cent of fees and may be means-tested up to 100 per cent of tuition fees (as required).
