SCHOLARSHIPS & Bursaries

Scholarships and bursaries are offered in both the Preparatory School and Senior School.

At King’s School Rochester, we believe that being talented and motivated is something to be proud of.

Scholarships at King’s offer more than just financial support – they provide an opportunity for scholars to develop their talents, lead within our community, and participate in a tailored enrichment programme to nurture and enhance their abilities. Being a scholar at King’s is both a recognition of achievement and a pathway to further growth and success. We offer scholarships in both the Preparatory School and the Senior School to acknowledge outstanding achievement and commitment in the following areas: Academic, Music, Sport, Drama and Art. These scholarships are available to internal and external pupils entering Year 7 (11+), Year 9 (13+) and Year 12 (16+).

• The value of each scholarship award is determined at the Principal’s discretion and represents a percentage of the tuition fees, independent of parental income.
• Means-tested financial support can be awarded in addition to scholarships.
• Though rare, it is possible for applicants to be awarded multiple scholarships.

In order to retain their scholarships, pupils are required to maintain the expected standards detailed in the ‘Duties of Scholars’ terms and conditions, for details of these please contact our Head of Admissions at 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

Additionally, we provide the following specific music scholarships and choristerships, each with generous fee remissions:

• Cathedral Choristership: Open to Prep boys and girls entering into Years 4 to 7 (ages 8 to 11).
• Chesterfield Organ Scholarships: Offered for 13+ and 16+ entry levels.
• The Peter Rogers’ Music Scholarship: Available for Senior School pupils (13+).

For the scope, benefits and eligibility criteria for each award, please see below.

If you would like to find out more information, please contact Sue Webb, Head of Admissions, on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

Scholarship Applications

Scholarship applications take place in the Michaelmas (Autumn) term for the following academic year.

For more information, please contact Sue Webb, Head of Admissions, on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

Date Event
Wednesday 6 November 2024 Scholarship Information Evening
Friday 29 November 2024 Deadline for Scholarship Applications
Friday 6 December 2024 Stage progression confirmation
Week commencing 20 January 2025 Scholarship assessments
Friday 14 February 2025
 Scholarship outcome decision

Senior School Scholarships

With a heritage dating back to 1541, King’s School Rochester has a rich tradition of King’s Scholars.

Senior School Academic Scholars are known as King’s Scholars and are granted membership of the Rochester Cathedral Foundation, an honour that ensures that their names are enshrined for generations to come in the Foundation Register.

Senior School Academic Scholarships are awarded to academically-gifted pupils from the start of Remove (Year 9) or Lower Sixth (Year 12). These scholarships are available for all pupils entering the Senior School on the basis of outstanding academic performance.

BENEFITS OF SENIOR ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Academic Scholarships offer a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal.

Our Academic Scholars excel academically and set the standard for intellectual engagement within their year group. All Academic Scholars become members of the Zetountes Society, attending weekly meetings where a range of learning activities and a variety of texts and podcasts promote critical thinking and debate. These sessions also feature guest presentations from staff and external speakers. Older pupils are encouraged and supported to participate in national academic competitions.

The aim of the Zetountes Society is to inspire pupils to question and reflect; broadening their academic horizons in order to establish links across subjects, space and time. The programme complements our curriculum, which is firmly rooted in ‘strength and challenge’, providing enrichment opportunities beyond the classroom. It nurtures essential skills for those aspiring to competitive universities, including Oxbridge and Russell Group institutions, while equipping pupils to be leaders and innovators in tomorrow’s society.

APPLICATIONS

All interested applicants are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the Principal prior to their application. Please contact the Head of Admissions for an Academic Scholarship application form on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

Remove (Year 9) Entry

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Successful applicants will be expected to demonstrate exceptional academic ability which will be gauged at their King’s assessment.

ASSESSMENT

All candidates will take an assessment at King’s School Rochester comprising examinations in English and Mathematics, a Cognitive Ability Test and a General Paper, in addition to an informal interview.

The parents of internal applicants should speak with the Headmaster of the Preparatory School prior to application and successful candidates would expect to score in excess of 125 points in a Cognitive Ability Test.

Sixth Form (Year 12) Entry

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Academic Scholars (King’s Scholars) are expected to achieve Grades 8 and 9 in their GCSE subjects.

ASSESSMENT

Sixth Form Academic Scholarships are based on GCSE results.

The Music department at King’s School is renowned for its diversity, vibrancy and exceptional success.

Every encouragement is given to our musicians and a high standard is attained in choral and instrumental spheres. As the world’s oldest Cathedral Choir School, we have the unique privilege of being able to use Rochester Cathedral as our chapel as well as hosting regular concerts in the Cathedral.

Senior School Music Scholarships are typically awarded at the start of Remove (Year 9) or Lower Sixth (Year 12) and both external and internal candidates are considered.

Music Scholars actively participate in the School’s musical life, including membership of choirs, orchestras and chamber ensembles as appropriate.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

King’s has a long-standing tradition of excellence in classical music but candidates who demonstrate outstanding achievement in other musical genres will be considered and are expected to provide clear evidence of being at a comparable level.

Academically, candidates will be expected to reach the standard of the King’s entrance examination for the appropriate age group or may sit the Common Entrance examination (taken in the June of the proposed year of entry) if they are aged 13. If a candidate is over 15 years of age, it is expected that he or she will enter directly into the Sixth Form and must therefore satisfy the entry criteria for the Sixth Form.

For Senior School Music Scholarships, as a guide, candidates will be expected to be Grade V standard on an orchestral instrument or voice entering Remove (Year 9) and achieve at least Grade VII on their first instrument/voice entering Lower Sixth (Year 12).

ASSESSMENT

All candidates will be reviewed against the set eligibility criteria and background information. Invitations to audition will be sent to those candidates deemed to meet the requirements and expectations of a Music Scholar.

At the audition candidates will be expected to:

  • play two contrasting pieces of their own choice on their principal instrument or voice.
  • play/sing one piece on their second instrument/voice.
  • perform aural tests and general musicianship tests appropriate to their standard.
  • perform scales and arpeggios appropriate to their standard.
  • sight-read and/or sight-sing.
  • show good knowledge of their instrument(s) or voice and an interest in, and enthusiasm for, general music matters.

Chesterfield Organ Scholarship

King’s School Rochester proudly holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest Cathedral Choir School. Nestled within the precincts of Rochester Cathedral, our School offers exceptional opportunities to King’s Organ Scholars, who gain access to the outstanding four-manual organ crafted by Walker and Mander within the Cathedral. The School further enhances our pupils’ abilities with three pipeless organs designated for practice.

BENEFITS OF THE CHESTERFIELD ORGAN SCHOLARSHIP

  • The Chesterfield Organ Scholarship offers a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal with the possibility of further means-tested remission.
  • Organ Scholars receive FREE tuition on ALL instruments studied at King’s and taught by King’s staff.

Remove (Year 9) Entry

This scholarship presents a remarkable opportunity for passionate and talented organists, as well as pianists desiring to transition to the organ, to cultivate their musical talents under the expert guidance of a Cathedral Organist.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Candidates should demonstrate at least a Grade 5 standard in organ or piano at the time of application.

Sixth Form (Year 12) Entry

This scholarship empowers scholars to play a prominent role in the School’s musical community. They will perform regularly in Cathedral services, recitals and other significant events. Scholars will be guided in preparation for all aspects of Oxbridge Organ Scholarship applications, RCO (Royal College of Organists) diplomas and auditions for music conservatoires as appropriate.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Candidates are expected to have achieved at least Grade 7 on the organ with either a Merit or Distinction.

APPLICATIONS FOR THE SENIOR SCHOOL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS

All interested applicants are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the Director of Music or the Principal prior to their application. Please contact the Head of Admissions for a Music Scholarship application form on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

The Peter Rogers’ Music Scholarship

This endowed scholarship represents a valuable opportunity for a pupil showcasing exceptional musical talent. The scholarship’s monetary value, up to £500 annually, is subject to the discretion of the Principal and the Director of Music and is bestowed each year. The award’s usage is versatile and can support various aspects of a scholar’s musical journey. This may encompass acquiring a suitable instrument, receiving vocal or instrumental lessons in preparation for auditions at conservatoires or universities, or any other endeavour that facilitates the recipient’s pursuit of a career in music.

Recipients of this scholarship will become active participants in the vibrant musical community at the School. This involvement includes joining choirs, orchestras and chamber ensembles as deemed appropriate.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The same criteria applied for Music Scholarships are relevant to the Peter Rogers’ Music Scholarship.

APPLICATIONS FOR THE PETER ROGERS’ MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a letter of application to the Director of Music for consideration.

King’s School Rochester proudly holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest Cathedral Choir School. Nestled within the precincts of Rochester Cathedral, our School offers exceptional opportunities to King’s Organ Scholars, who gain access to the outstanding four-manual organ crafted by Walker and Mander within the Cathedral. The School further enhances our pupils’ abilities with three pipeless organs designated for practice.

BENEFITS OF THE CHESTERFIELD ORGAN SCHOLARSHIP

  • The Chesterfield Organ Scholarship offers a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal with the possibility of further means-tested remission.
  • Organ Scholars receive FREE tuition on ALL instruments studied at King’s and taught by King’s staff.

Remove (Year 9) Entry

This scholarship presents a remarkable opportunity for passionate and talented organists, as well as pianists desiring to transition to the organ, to cultivate their musical talents under the expert guidance of a Cathedral Organist.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Candidates should demonstrate at least a Grade 5 standard in organ or piano at the time of application.

Sixth Form (Year 12) Entry

This scholarship empowers scholars to play a prominent role in the School’s musical community. They will perform regularly in Cathedral services, recitals and other significant events. Scholars will be guided in preparation for all aspects of Oxbridge Organ Scholarship applications, RCO (Royal College of Organists) diplomas and auditions for music conservatoires as appropriate.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Candidates are expected to have achieved at least Grade 7 on the organ with either a Merit or Distinction.

Sport plays a central role in the life of King’s School Rochester and our Sports Scholarship programme is designed to identify and develop our most talented athletes.

These scholarships enable our scholars to thrive and not only represent the School but also their county, region or even their country in their chosen sport.

BENEFITS FOR OUR SENIOR SPORTS SCHOLARS

All Sports Scholarships offer a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal.

All sports at King’s are taught by experienced coaches, several of whom play for or coach professional teams across Kent. We prioritise the development of physical and mental stamina, precision, confidence and teamwork skills to help our athletes achieve sporting success.

The Senior Sports Scholarship programme provides individualised support to our most talented athletes. This includes weekly Strength and Conditioning sessions, where athletes work closely with qualified coaches to enhance physical performance and reduce the risk of injury. Our athletes also benefit from mentorship by sports staff, who assist with profiling, target setting and balancing their academic commitments.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Candidates must demonstrate outstanding performance in one of King’s core sports, which include cricket, football, hockey, netball, rugby, swimming (and rowing for Senior scholarships). As a guideline, candidates should typically compete at least at the county level in their primary sport or demonstrate an equivalent standard.

Candidates are expected to participate in King’s core sports, not just their area of specialism.

Academically, external candidates are expected to meet the standard of the King’s entrance examination for their age group or take the Common Entrance examination (typically in June of the proposed year of entry) if they are aged 13. If a candidate is over 15 years of age, it is expected that he or she will enter directly into the Sixth Form and must therefore satisfy the entry criteria for the Sixth Form.

Senior School Sport Scholarships are usually awarded at the start of Remove (Year 9) or Lower Sixth (Year 12) and both external and internal candidates are considered. Scholars will contribute fully to the Sports programme at King’s and should commit themselves to as many sports as possible, not just in their area of specialism.

ASSESSMENT

All applications will be evaluated based on a portfolio of sporting achievements submitted by the candidates. Invitations to a practical assessment session will be extended to those applicants meeting the criteria and expectations of a Sports Scholar. The Director of Sport may also attend a club fixture to observe a candidate in action.

APPLICATIONS

All interested applicants are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the Director of Sport or the Principal prior to their application. Please contact the Head of Admissions for a Sport Scholarship application form on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

Drama Scholarships at King’s School Rochester offer a dynamic opportunity for pupils who are passionate about drama and theatre.

These scholarships aim to cultivate a rich theatrical experience and foster excellence in the dramatic arts. Drama Scholars are expected to fully engage in the co-curricular Drama and Theatre programme, becoming outstanding ambassadors for the Drama department. Their active involvement will encompass participation in many major productions throughout their time at the School.

Drama Scholars may find themselves in diverse roles within the theatre world as they progress through their education. While some may primarily serve as performers, others may explore roles as directors, technicians or stage managers. Regardless of their roles, Drama Scholars are expected to demonstrate reliability, unwavering commitment, effective teamwork and a high level of skill.

BENEFITS OF DRAMA SCHOLARSHIPS

All Drama Scholarships offer a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal.

Drama Scholars have the opportunity to engage in a comprehensive Drama Scholars programme, which includes:

  • attending theatre trips.
  • supporting younger Drama pupils in co-curricular projects.
  • actively participating in workshops led by professional theatre practitioners.
  • enrolling in acting training to prepare for acting examinations, which may include LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) Acting Medals and Trinity Acting Examinations.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

All candidates will be assessed based on specific eligibility criteria and background information. Candidates are required to submit a Performing Arts CV. Invitations to audition will be extended to candidates who meet the stipulated requirements and expectations of a Drama Scholar. There is an expectation that candidates will choose to study Drama at GCSE or Drama and Theatre at A Level as part of their academic studies.

ASSESSMENT

At the audition candidates will be expected to:

  • perform two monologues (of the applicant’s choice), each lasting between one and two minutes. These monologues should demonstrate a contrast in characters and theatre styles, with one being a classical monologue and the other a more contemporary piece.
  • participate in a brief, informal interview with the Director of Drama, during which they will discuss the work they have presented and their dramatic interests and experience as outlined in the Performing Arts CV.
  • engage in collaborative workshop activities alongside other potential scholars and King’s Drama pupils, providing an opportunity to showcase their dramatic abilities in a workshop environment.

APPLICATIONS

All interested applicants are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the Head of Drama and Theatre prior to their application. Please contact the Head of Admissions for a Drama Scholarship application form on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

The inspirational environment of King’s celebrated Art and Design department allows pupils the space to create exceptional and bold pieces. The calibre of work produced increases in scope and quality year on year.

Art Scholarships at King’s recognise and reward exceptional creative potential. Successful candidates will showcase evidence of creativity, passion, skill, imagination, and the ability to work independently across a variety of forms and media. It’s crucial that candidates exhibit a genuine and profound passion for art that is central to their lives.

BENEFITS OF ART SCHOLARSHIPS

All Art Scholarships offer a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

All candidates will be evaluated based on specified criteria and background information. Invitations to audition will be extended to candidates who meet the requirements and expectations of an Art Scholar. There is an expectation that candidates take Art at GCSE or Art and Design at A Level as part of their studies.

PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION

Candidates are required to submit a portfolio that may consist of various forms of artistic work, including drawings, paintings, photography, animation, graphic design, and three-dimensional pieces. The Art and Design department welcomes work in any medium, although it is recommended that candidates refrain from bringing in large canvases and three-dimensional works (high-quality photographs suffice for these pieces). Candidates are advised to submit no more than 20 pieces of work, accompanied by high-quality sketchbooks.

Candidates must also provide a brief personal written statement about their work, artistic interests, and recent exhibitions they have attended. The department highly values work that is derived from first hand references, drawn from life rather than from photographs. This should be reflected in the work submitted.

ASSESSMENT

  • A sustained observational drawing exercise.
  • Interview in which the portfolio that has been submitted and the adjoining statement will be a focal point for discussion.

APPLICATIONS

All interested applicants are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the Head of Art and Design prior to their application. Please contact the Head of Admissions for an Art and Design Scholarship application form on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

Preparatory School Scholarships

With a heritage dating back to 1541, King’s School Rochester has a rich tradition of King’s Scholars.

Academic Scholars who receive Major King’s Scholarships are granted membership of the Rochester Cathedral Foundation, an honour that ensures that their names are enshrined for generations to come in the Foundation Register.

Academic Scholars in the Preparatory School are offered a King’s Exhibition.

BENEFITS OF ACADEMIC KING’S EXHIBITIONS

  • King’s Exhibitions offer a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal.
  • Exhibition holders are anticipated to progress to become either King’s Scholars or recipients of a Minor King’s Scholarship upon entry to the Senior School at age 13.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

King’s Exhibitions are available to applicants entering Year 7. Candidates are expected to meet high academic standards and demonstrate the potential to excel in and contribute to the School’s wide array of co-curricular activities.

ASSESSMENT

The assessment consists of two parts:

Part 1: Achieving a mean average score of 125 or higher in the preliminary entrance test.

Part 2: The King’s Exhibition assessment comprises scholarship papers in English comprehension, creative writing, mathematics and logic. Applicants will also undergo an interview with the Head and Deputy Head (Academic) of the Preparatory School.

APPLICATIONS

All interested applicants are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the Head of the Preparatory School prior to their application. Please contact the Head of Admissions for an Academic Scholarship application form on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

The Music department at King’s School is renowned for its diversity, vibrancy, and exceptional success.

Every encouragement is given to our musicians and a high standard is attained in choral and instrumental spheres. As the world’s oldest Cathedral Choir School, we have the unique privilege of being able to use Rochester Cathedral as our chapel as well as hosting regular concerts in the Cathedral.

Preparatory School Music Scholarships are awarded at entry into Year 7 and both external and internal candidates are eligible.

Music Scholars actively participate in the School’s musical life, including membership of choirs, orchestras and chamber ensembles as appropriate.

BENEFITS OF MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Music Scholarships offer a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal.

In addition, all Music Scholars receive FREE tuition for TWO instruments taught by King’s staff, as well as Music Theory.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

King’s has a long-standing tradition of excellence in classical music but candidates who demonstrate outstanding achievement in other musical genres will be considered and are expected to provide clear evidence of being at a comparable level.

Academically, candidates will be expected to reach the standard of the King’s entrance examination for the appropriate age group.

For Preparatory School Music Scholarships, as a guide, candidates will be expected to be Grade IV standard or higher on an orchestral instrument upon entering Year 7, and they should offer a second instrument.

ASSESSMENT

All candidates will be reviewed against the set eligibility criteria and background information. Invitations to audition will be sent to those candidates deemed to meet the requirements and expectations of a Music Scholar.

At the audition candidates will be expected to:

  • play two contrasting pieces of their own choice on their principal instrument or voice.
  • play/sing one piece on their second instrument/voice.
  • perform aural tests and general musicianship tests appropriate to their standard.
  • perform scales and arpeggios appropriate to their standard.
  • sight-read and/or sight-sing.
  • show good knowledge of their instrument(s) or voice and an interest in, and enthusiasm for, general music matters.

APPLICATIONS

All interested applicants are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the Director of Music or the Headmaster of the Preparatory School prior to their application. Please contact the Head of Admissions for a Music Scholarship application form on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

Sport plays a central role in the life of King’s School Rochester and our Sports Scholarship programme is designed to identify and develop our most talented athletes.

These scholarships enable our scholars to thrive and not only represent the School but also their county, region or even their country in their chosen sport.

BENEFITS FOR SPORTS SCHOLARS

All Sports Scholarships offer a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal.

All sports at King’s are taught by experienced coaches, several of whom play for or coach professional teams across Kent. We prioritise the development of physical and mental stamina, precision, confidence and teamwork skills to help our athletes achieve sporting success.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Candidates must demonstrate outstanding performance in one of King’s core sports, which include cricket, football, hockey, netball, rugby, swimming. As a guideline, candidates should typically compete at least at the county level in their primary sport or demonstrate an equivalent standard.

Candidates are expected to participate in King’s core sports, not just their area of specialism.

Academically, external candidates are expected to meet the standard of the King’s entrance examination for their age group.

Preparatory School Sports Scholarships are usually awarded at the start of Year 7 and both external and internal candidates are considered. Scholars will contribute fully to the Sports programme at King’s and should commit themselves to as many sports as possible, not just in their area of specialism.

ASSESSMENT

All applications will be evaluated based on a portfolio of sporting achievements submitted by the candidates. Invitations to a practical assessment session will be extended to those applicants meeting the criteria and expectations of a Sports Scholar. The Director of Sport may also attend a club fixture to observe a candidate in action.

APPLICATIONS

All interested applicants are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the Director of Sport or the Headmaster of the Preparatory School prior to their application. Please contact the Head of Admissions for a Sport Scholarship application form on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

Drama Scholarships at King’s School Rochester offer a dynamic opportunity for pupils who are passionate about drama and theatre.

These scholarships aim to cultivate a rich theatrical experience and foster excellence in the dramatic arts. Drama Scholars are expected to fully engage in the co-curricular Drama and Theatre programme, becoming outstanding ambassadors for the Drama department. Their active involvement will encompass participation in many major productions throughout their time at the School.

Drama Scholars may find themselves in diverse roles within the theatre world as they progress through their education. While some may primarily serve as performers, others may explore roles as directors, technicians or stage managers. Regardless of their roles, Drama Scholars are expected to demonstrate reliability, unwavering commitment, effective teamwork and a high level of skill.

BENEFITS OF DRAMA SCHOLARSHIPS

All Drama Scholarships offer a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal.

Drama Scholars have the opportunity to engage in a comprehensive Drama Scholars programme, which includes:

  • attending theatre trips.
  • supporting younger Drama pupils in co-curricular projects.
  • actively participating in workshops led by professional theatre practitioners.
  • enrolling in acting training to prepare for acting examinations, which may include LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) Acting Medals and Trinity Acting Examinations.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

All candidates will be assessed based on specific eligibility criteria and background information. Candidates are required to submit a Performing Arts CV. Invitations to audition will be extended to candidates who meet the stipulated requirements and expectations of a Drama Scholar. There is an expectation that candidates will choose to study Drama at GCSE or Drama and Theatre at A Level as part of their academic studies.

ASSESSMENT

At the audition candidates will be expected to:

  • perform two monologues (of the applicant’s choice), each lasting between one and two minutes. These monologues should demonstrate a contrast in characters and theatre styles, with one being a classical monologue and the other a more contemporary piece.
  • participate in a brief, informal interview with the Director of Drama, during which they will discuss the work they have presented and their dramatic interests and experience as outlined in the Performing Arts CV.
  • engage in collaborative workshop activities alongside other potential scholars and King’s Drama pupils, providing an opportunity to showcase their dramatic abilities in a workshop environment.

APPLICATIONS

All interested applicants are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the Head of Drama and Theatre prior to their application. Please contact the Head of Admissions for a Drama Scholarship application form on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

The inspirational environment of King’s celebrated Art and Design department allows pupils the space to create exceptional and bold pieces. The calibre of work produced increases in scope and quality year on year.

Art Scholarships at King’s recognise and reward exceptional creative potential. Successful candidates will showcase evidence of creativity, passion, skill, imagination, and the ability to work independently across a variety of forms and media. It’s crucial that candidates exhibit a genuine and profound passion for art that is central to their lives.

BENEFITS OF ART SCHOLARSHIPS

All Art Scholarships offer a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

All candidates will be evaluated based on specified criteria and background information. Invitations to audition will be extended to candidates who meet the requirements and expectations of an Art Scholar. There is an expectation that candidates take Art at GCSE or Art and Design at A Level as part of their studies.

PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION

Candidates are required to submit a portfolio that may consist of various forms of artistic work, including drawings, paintings, photography, animation, graphic design, and three-dimensional pieces. The Art and Design department welcomes work in any medium, although it is recommended that candidates refrain from bringing in large canvases and three-dimensional works (high-quality photographs suffice for these pieces). Candidates are advised to submit no more than 20 pieces of work, accompanied by high-quality sketchbooks.

Candidates must also provide a brief personal written statement about their work, artistic interests, and recent exhibitions they have attended. The department highly values work that is derived from first hand references, drawn from life rather than from photographs. This should be reflected in the work submitted.

ASSESSMENT

  • A sustained observational drawing exercise.
  • Interview in which the portfolio that has been submitted and the adjoining statement will be a focal point for discussion.

APPLICATIONS

All interested applicants are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the Head of Art and Design prior to their application. Please contact the Head of Admissions for an Art and Design Scholarship application form on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

Cathedral Choristerships are prestigious awards offered to those in Year 4 after a thorough evaluation process comprising voice trials conducted by the Cathedral Director of Music, academic assessment and interviews.

BENEFITS OF CATHEDRAL CHORISTERSHIPS

  • Cathedral Choristerships offer a reduction in fees at the discretion of the Principal to pupils who will be 8 years old by the September they enter Year 4.
  • Choristers receive FREE tuition fees for ONE orchestral instrument, as well as an additional THIRD remission on a further instrument; these lessons should be taken in school.
  • Choristers receive FREE Music Theory coaching and vocal lessons.

ELIGIBILITY FOR MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Cathedral Choristers may also become eligible for a Music Scholarship in King’s Senior School following their service as Choristers, provided they meet the criteria for this honour.

DURATION OF CHORISTERSHIPS

Under normal circumstances, Cathedral Choristerships conclude either when a Chorister leaves the Choir or when they transition to the Senior School at the age of 13.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR POTENTIAL CHORISTERS

Candidates who intend to leave King’s at the end of Year 6 should not seek a Choristership.

ASSESSMENT

The voice trial for Cathedral Choristerships encompasses aural tests and the performance of a previously prepared song or hymn. During this process, the Cathedral’s Director of Music assesses a candidate’s potential rather than their current level of achievement. The Director is always open to having an informal discussion with parents and candidates before the actual voice trial.

If a candidate currently plays a musical instrument, it is advantageous to have it played during the voice trial.

APPLICATIONS

All interested applicants are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the Director of Music or Headmaster of the Preparatory School prior to their application.

Please contact the Head of Admissions for a Music Scholarship application form on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

Bursaries

Bursaries offer means-tested financial support to pupils who otherwise would be unable to attend King’s School Rochester. They may be offered in addition to the award of a scholarship to increase the value of the award.

Assistance with Fees for New Pupils at the School

All candidates being offered a Scholarship Award are eligible for an additional means-tested bursary. In exceptional circumstances, the School may consider means-tested bursarial support for new pupils who do not fit the scholarship criteria.

The School has charitable status and the Governors wish to ensure the limited available funds are used to support parents who otherwise would not be able to send their child to King’s School Rochester. Additionally, the School is able to grant Bursaries from donations according to specific criteria stated by the benefactor.

Therefore, any such award is based not only on the candidate’s performance in the entrance assessment but also on an annual declaration of income and assets, consideration of the benefit to the child of an education at King’s and also the likely positive contribution to School life that the child will make during their time here.

Assistance with Fees for Current Parents

Financial assistance may be awarded to existing pupils where a change in parents’/guardians’ circumstances results in difficulty in meeting tuition fees. The financial assistance is subject to careful consideration and assessment and, once granted, is means-tested annually.

Clergy Remission

Children of Church of England Ministers, and priests of a church in communion with the Church of England, are given a means-tested reduction in fees.

Service Personnel Remission

King’s School Rochester operates within the MoD Scheme for Continuity of Education Allowance for boarding school pupils. Day places are also eligible for a Service remission which is calculated by means-testing.

Sibling Remission

Where parents have three or more children at the School, a reduction for each after the second child is given, amounting to 10% of the third child’s fees, 20% for the fourth child and 40% for the fifth and subsequent children.

Conditions Of Scholarships & Bursaries

Parents will be required to repay all or part of the benefits they have received under the awards explained in the above information in any of the following circumstances:

• Up to three terms benefits (if received) if the pupil has engaged in serious misconduct or has been expelled or removed for reasons of misconduct by requirement of the Principal acting in good faith

• Up to three terms benefits (if received) where the pupil has been withdrawn for any reason

For more information, please contact the Bursar on 01634 888555 or email bursary@kings-rochester.co.uk