For Year 7 entry, there is no requirement to apply for an academic scholarship. Candidates will be invited to a scholarship interview based on their performance in the entrance test which takes place in January of the year of entry. There will be an individual interview with a member of the academic team.

For Year 9 entry there is no requirement for external applicants to apply for an academic scholarship. Candidates will be selected following the entrance tests and will be given the choice of a range of subjects to be assessed on. Internal candidates are required to submit a maximum of 250 words expressing why they would like to be an Academic Scholar at Leighton Park. All applicants will have an interview with members of our academic team.

Lower Sixth entry candidates will need to apply for an academic scholarship submitting a maximum of 250 words expressing why they would like to be a Scholar in their chosen subject(s). Candidates will be selected in November of Year 11, sit written assessments in a maximum of 2 subjects and have an interview with members of our academic team.

Please note, that in order to suitably assess a candidate’s natural academic aptitude, we will not be issuing exemplar test papers or any further details regarding Scholar’s interviews in advance of the scholarship assessment day. Students are unable to take the French, Spanish or Mandarin paper if this is a home language, spoken by one or more parents. Although applicants may apply for two subjects, they will be limited to the support and benefits of one
scholarship, should they be successful.

• Additional support within the Scholar’s relevant academic department
• Subject-specific opportunities to broaden and contextualise learning, including trips and sessions with external partners
• Academic Scholar lunches: a chance to debate concepts and opinions with other Scholars and staff
• Academic Scholar trips: A chance to explore and experience interesting events
• Academic Scholar symposiums: A chance to grow through greater depth of understanding in particular topic areas

• Being an academic ambassador within the School, entering relevant competitions, attending related trips and extension activities
• Acting as a mentor to support younger students
• Working with others to raise the profile of academia both internally and at outreach events
• Extending knowledge by participating in, and leading, activities and clubs

Candidates are requested to submit examples of work and a maximum of 250 words expressing why they would like to be an Art Scholar at Leighton Park.  The work submitted need not be restricted to drawings and paintings, but may show evidence of a broad area of study, which might include, for example, prints, photographs or ceramics. 

Candidates successful at the initial screening will be invited to take a short practical exam. In advance of the assessment day, candidates will receive an examination paper and are advised to spend some time producing preliminary/supporting studies.

This work forms a very important part of the examination. We are looking for ideas from various sources, the development of these ideas and an ability to work independently towards a final piece. The final piece will need to be produced unaided and under supervision in the Art Department on the Art Scholarship assessment day.

In the final stage of the assessment process each candidate is interviewed by a member of the Art Department. This is an opportunity to discuss their portfolio and general interests.

• Scholarship applications open - Monday 7th September 2026
• Scholarships applications close - Monday 9th November 2026 for Lower Sixth and Friday 13th November 2026 for Years 7 & 9
• Art Scholarship Assessment Day - Wednesday 2nd December 2026

• National Art Pass that permits free entry to over 240 galleries and museums, as well as 50% off entry to major exhibitions including those at Tate, the V&A and more
• Co-curricular opportunities including Dressmaking, Life Drawing and Flexi Art Club as well as departmental trips to galleries and industry events
• Additional one to one support to develop technique and skill

Scholars are expected to make an active contribution to the Art Department and their own development through:

• Participation in art exhibitions, competitions and events in order to inspire others
• Attending art trips to galleries and cultural institutions, where possible
• Advancing work to new levels, in terms of scale, use of materials and intellectual enquiry • Assisting with studio duties, taking responsibility for the space and general upkeep
• Showing commitment to art enrichment opportunities, such as Drawing Club
• Developing art study further by selecting GCSE / A Level Art & Design and / or Textiles

Candidates are requested to provide support for their application in the form of examination certification (RAD, ISTD, BBO, NATD). If this is not available, information on the student’s involvement relating to performance, choreography and critical appreciation within dance should be provided.

Candidates are also required to submit a maximum of 250 words expressing why they would like to be a Dance Scholar at Leighton Park. The Dance Department encourages applications from students interested in all aspects of performance, and wish to emphasise that scholarships are also open to students who are keen to pursue their interest in the choreographic and critical analysis aspects of dance.

Candidates successful at the initial screening, will be invited to audition. The dance audition performance will be a choreographed solo in response to a selected stimulus. In the final stage of the assessment process each candidate will take part in a group practical workshop followed by an interview with a member of the Dance Department. This is an opportunity to discuss their dance ambitions and general interests.

Please note candidates are assessed on the basis of dance potential across performance, choreography and appreciation as well as prior achievements. Dance examination boards are a useful indicator but other factors are considered.

• Scholarship applications open - Monday 7th September 2026
• Scholarships applications close - Monday 9th November 2026 for Lower Sixth and Friday 13th November 2026 for Years 7 & 9
• Dance Scholarship Assessment Day - Thursday 3rd December 2026

• Access to a purpose-built dance studio
• Co-curricular opportunities including the annual Let’s Dance performance, masterclasses with various companies such as Rambert and visits to the theatre to observe dance companies such as Matthew Bourne
• Development of performance, choreographic and analytical skill
• Development of life skills; confidence, perseverance, communication and cooperation

Scholars are expected to make an active contribution to the Dance Department and their own development through: 

• A passion for dance and a genuine interest in learning about dance as a discrete subject
• Participation in all dance opportunities such as masterclasses and trips offered
• Excellent attendance and positive behaviour in the classroom, workshops and educational visits
• Seeking and accepting leadership responsibilities for performance projects such as co-ordinating and communicating with other students
• Attendance at all dance rehearsals and performances
• Dedication to developing dance study further by selecting GCSE / A Level Dance

Candidates are requested to provide support for their application in the form of examination certification (LAMDA/RADA) or some form of drama grading. If this is not available, information on the student’s involvement relating to performance, design or technical support within drama must be provided.

Students are also required to submit a maximum of 250 words expressing why they would like to be a Drama Scholar at Leighton Park. The Drama Department encourages applications from students interested in all aspects of performance, and wish to emphasise that scholarships are also open to students who are keen to pursue their interest in the technical and design aspects of theatre.

Candidates successful at the initial screening, will be invited to audition or present their portfolio. The audition performance could be any scripted piece from any medium and time period or even an original presentation devised by the student themselves. The optional design portfolio could include original designs for costume, lighting or sound together with any visual evidence of the candidate’s interest in these areas.

In the final stage of the assessment process each candidate is interviewed by a member of the Drama Department. This is an opportunity to discuss their theatrical ambitions and general interests.

• Scholarship applications open - Monday 7th September 2026
• Scholarships applications close - Monday 9th November 2026 for Lower Sixth and Friday 13th November 2026 for Years 7 & 9
• Drama Scholarship Assessment Day - Friday 4th December 2026

• Opportunities to extend learning beyond the classroom and undertake directing, performing and/or design responsibilities
• Leadership roles whereby Scholars can develop their own creative projects and performances
• Additional one to one support appropriate to the Scholar’s ambitions
• Opportunities to attend theatre performances and cultural trips
• Invitations to tailored scholars’ workshops to extend learning and enhance skills

Scholars are expected to make an active contribution to the Drama Department and their own development through:

• Auditioning for each performance opportunity that the Drama Department offers
• Attending all Drama performances, rehearsals or activities, where possible
• Seeking and accepting leadership responsibilities for performance projects such as co-ordinating other students and communicating with them
• Developing Drama study further by selecting GCSE / A Level Drama

This scholarship is intended for Sixth Form applicants only. The Ethical Changemaker Scholarship recognises students with a determined desire to change the world. This scholarship aims to give the School’s Quaker values currency and purpose and focuses on values-led leadership and active citizenship.

This focus draws on the impressive history of Quakers who set up forward-thinking businesses that treated staff and suppliers fairly and created social good, such as Cadbury, and well-known charities and campaigning organisations, such as Amnesty International.

Candidates should be able to demonstrate good grades in relevant examinations to date eg Global Perspectives, Geography, Religious Studies or Philosophy a strong commitment to ethical approaches, equality and sustainability, an interest in entrepreneurial or business approaches to tackling social or environmental issues, a deep desire to be a changemaker in society, the capabilities to influence and lead others, and a willingness to engage with external people from the wider community such as charitable organisations, ethical businesses and schools to arrange topical talks.

Candidates are required to submit a maximum of 500 words expressing why they would like to be an Ethical Changemaker Scholar at Leighton Park. This process will include a presentation on a suitable topic which will be followed by a panel interview. The topic for the presentation will be communicated at the appropriate time.

• Extending knowledge by attendance at, and participating in, ethical events on and off site
• Developing leadership skills by supporting and running activities and clubs within the academic and co-curricular programmes
• Meeting external contacts and networking in socially and ethically responsible circles

Scholars are expected to make an active contribution to departments and their own development through:

• Taking a leading role in relevant cocurricular activities. Attending our Sixth Form charity group, Amicus, Amnesty Youth International and Social Enterprise weekly meetings and coordinating projects and campaigns as part of these groups
• Leading on House Charity fundraising for their house and modelling best practice to others

This scholarship is open to candidates applying for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. External applications should be made via the admissions portal and will be selected in the November of Year 11. Late applications from international students may be considered.

Assessment will include a scholar’s essay and scholar’s interview with a member of our academic team. Internal candidates will also be assessed by essay and interview.

• Head’s Scholarship offers a range from 5-30% remission of the day fees
• Additional support from our Aspiring High programme
• Opportunities to broaden and contextualise learning, including trips and sessions with external partners
• Scholar lunches: a chance to debate concepts and opinions with other Scholars and staff
• Scholar trips: A chance to explore and experience interesting events
• Scholar symposiums: A chance to grow through greater depth of understanding in particular topic areas 

•  Being an IB Diploma Programme ambassador within the School, entering relevant competitions, attending related trips and extension activities
• Acting as a mentor to support younger students
• Working with others to raise the profile of academia both internally and at outreach events
• Extending knowledge by participating in, and leading, activities and clubs
• Being an active member of our Aspiring High programme

Candidates are requested to provide support for their application in the form of graded examination and theory certificates (if applicable). If the student’s current music teacher would like to provide a reference, this should be included in their application.

Students are also required to submit a maximum of 250 words expressing why they would like to be a Music Scholar at Leighton Park. Both practical performers and aspiring composers are encouraged to apply.

Candidates will be asked to perform two contrasting pieces for the first instrument offered and one for any subsequent instrument if applicable. Compositions can be included as an ‘instrument’. Voice is included as an instrument. In the final stage of the assessment process each candidate is interviewed by our Director of Music, and is encouraged to talk generally about their musical experience and ambitions. We expect students to demonstrate evidence of widening musical interests and to complete some aural tests.

Please note candidates are assessed on the basis of musical potential as well as prior musical achievement. Associated Board practical exams and other examination boards are a useful indicator but other factors are considered.

• Scholarship applications open - Monday 7th September 2026
• Scholarships applications close - Monday 9th November 2026 for Lower Sixth and Friday 13th November 2026 for Years 7 & 9
• Music Scholarship Assessment Day - Monday 30th November 2026

• One or two free instrumental lessons of thirty minutes each per week (dependent on award level). These lessons are available with Leighton Park instrumental teaching staff only. Please note that these lessons are non-transferable out of School to other external teachers
• Performance in our wide range of concerts throughout the School year
• Involvement in workshops, including those with visiting guest musicians
• One to one regular support with a professional accompanist and our Director of Music
• Immersion in a variety of musical projects with our Music Education Partner, Yamaha UK and our certified training partner, Steinberg
• Opportunities to showcase their musical abilities in smaller one off projects
• Support from an experienced team for applications to top Conservatoires and universities to study music

Scholars are expected to make an active contribution to the Music Department and their own development through:

• Participating fully in the musical life of the School including concerts and the co-curricular programme
• Being an ambassador for the Music Department and ensuring that behaviour at rehearsals and concerts reflects this
• Performing in a range of concerts throughout the School year including the Scholars’ Concert
• Selecting GCSE Music and by developing their study of music further in the Sixth Form
• Developing and leading their own activities and ensembles
• Applying for membership of county and national ensembles and enter competitions

Candidates are requested to provide evidence of playing for a netball, hockey or football team (core sports) as well as rugby, cricket, tennis or athletics team at county level or equivalent, or be on an advanced pathway, to support their application.

Students who play alternative sports will also be considered but should be able to evidence playing their sport at a level that is considered elite. It must be noted that the final decision on these criteria will be down to the discretion of the Director of Sport. Students are also required to submit a maximum of 250 words expressing why they would like to be a Sports Scholar at Leighton Park.

References from clubs/trainers inside or outside of School can be submitted along with competition results, personal bests and other evidence of achievement. Successful candidates will be expected to attend an assessment day during which they will participate in a range of sports and will cover sports specific practices and conditioned games. They will be assessed on their general level of fitness through aptitude tests carried out by NVP Analytics, their adaptability and ability to transfer and link their dominant skills to other sports, their response to coaching and their leadership skills. In the final stage of the assessment process each candidate is interviewed by the members of the PE, Sport & Wellbeing Department.

Students are encouraged to talk generally about their sporting experience and ambitions.

• Scholarship applications open - Monday 7th September 2026
• Scholarships applications close - Monday 9th November 2026 for Lower Sixth and Friday 13th November 2026 for Years 7 & 9
• Sport Scholarship Assessment Day - Tuesday 1st December 2026

• The Advanced Performer Programme (APP) provides bespoke strength and conditioning, monitoring and tracking of fitness and wellness data, exclusive trips and monthly seminars
• Sports Science support package, providing a termly functional movement screening and consultation with our local conditioning and rehabilitation centre and partners, GoPerform
• Access to in-depth feedback from professionals, on specific areas to improve sporting performance
• End of year fitness tests conducted at MoveHQ

Sports Scholars are expected to play a leading role in the sporting life of the School and should give a high level of commitment to School sport across all three terms throughout their School career.

• Representing the School or their House on all appropriate occasions
• Being an active member of the Advanced Performer Programme, attending weekly strength and conditioning sessions and booking and attending their termly session at Go Perform
• Being actively involved in School sport, playing 1st team for the appropriate age group in at least one sport. If this isn’t possible then outside of School to be still representing the School in the major sports each term
• Displaying excellent conduct in all lessons, training or competitions as an ambassador for the Department
• Being actively involved in sport outside of School, playing at least one sport at county level (or equivalent)
• Leading or helping with sports hobbies or offering opportunities to share their expertise with other students in their chosen sport at least once during the year

This scholarship is intended for Sixth Form applicants only. STEAM Scholarships recognise excellence in creative problem solving and interdisciplinary approaches, where students are able to demonstrate a passion for tackling complex problems by combining creative habits of mind with the analytical skills from STEM.

Applicants should be able to demonstrate good grades in any relevant subject alongside a strong interest in, and capability for, entrepreneurial and interdisciplinary approaches. They should have a passion for creative problem solving and innovative thinking with a desire to change the world for the better.

Students are required to submit their application form which includes a maximum of 500 words expressing why they would like to be a STEAM Scholar at Leighton Park. Successful candidates will then be invited to a formal selection process. This will require the submission of a portfolio of evidence such as a letter of recommendation, examples of participation in STEAM competitions or awards and / or an example of STEAM related project or class work that they are proud of.

They should prepare a 5-minute presentation on what they would do to promote STEAM at Leighton Park. Candidate should also read up and reflect on current issues and developments as they will be asked about something in STEAM that has inspired them recently.

During the selection process there will also be an unseen task, which students will be given 10 minutes prior to the interview to prepare for, and a short general interview.

• Head’s Scholarship offers a range from 5-30% remission of the day fees
• Support with exploring passions and developing innovations and ideas
• Access to opportunities appropriate to areas of STEAM interest, which may include linking with businesses and universities
• Support and encouragement to be a changemaker and make a difference, with the opportunity to be involved in a number of innovative programmes looking at the most important challenges we face

Scholars are expected to make an active contribution to STEAM and their own development through:

• Completion of projects, developing their own ideas and innovations
• Attending trips and experiences to broaden their knowledge and understanding
• Participation in academic competitions across different STEAM subjects
• Engagement in the STEAM co-curricular programme, including supporting/ leading a club in their own area of interest
• Championing STEAM, mentoring younger students and acting as an ambassador within the School as well as externally

If you indicate via the Admissions Portal that you wish to apply for a bursary, we will email you an activation link to enable you to create an account on the online portal, through which you will need to complete your application and provide supporting documentation.  

Completed applications and supporting documents are reviewed and passed to an independent company, Bursary Administration Limited (BAL), who will carry out a home visit and interview as part of our assessment. 

Since this financial assessment can be a lengthy process, it is important that bursary applications are submitted in a timely fashion in line with our registration deadline. 

Each bursary application is assessed on its own merits and awards are made accordingly, subject to the school’s ability to fund these within the context of its overall budget. It is recognised that judgements about what sacrifices a family should make to pay school fees will be personal. However, the school has a duty to ensure that all bursary grants are well focussed and so, as well as current earnings, other factors which will be considered in determining the necessary level of grant will include: 

• The ability to improve the financial position or earning power of the family. For example, where there are two partners, both would be expected to be employed unless one is prevented from doing so through incapacity, the need to care for children under school age or other dependents, or the requirements of their partner’s work.
• Opportunities to release any capital. Significant capital savings and investments would be expected to be used for the payment of school fees, as would equity values in houses.
• In cases of separation, the contribution made by both parents.
• Contribution to household costs by other, wider, family members, any adults unrelated to the child or by outside sources. 

Acknowledging that others might have a different view, the school considers that the following would not be consistent with the receipt of a bursary: 

• Significant equity in a main residence 
• Frequent or expensive holidays
• New or luxury cars
• Taking on increased borrowings to fund property purchase/home improvements 
• Investment in significant home improvements
• A second property/land holdings
• Rental properties 
• Significant, regular expenditure on costly non-essential leisure pursuits and pastimes. 

Bursaries are remission on main school fees only. They do not cover any extra costs such as uniform, equipment or trips. 

We require full financial information from all those with legal parental responsibility for the child, including details of anybody else contributing financially to the household. Where applicable, the assessment process considers the cost of maintaining two households and any maintenance paid for children of a previous marriage. 

• Where both parents live at the same address you should complete a single application.
• Parents who are separated or divorced will be asked to submit separate applications. The bursary cannot be assessed until both applications have been submitted. To enable the assessment process to run smoothly, it is important that parents are in agreement about making the bursary application, so it is advisable to discuss this between yourselves before applying for a bursary. The parent initiating the bursary application will be sent the link to the online bursary application portal. As part of the initial account set up, details of the second parent including an email address must be provided. The second parent will then be sent an invitation to set up a separate account linked to the child. Information provided by one parent will not be visible to the other.