Christ College offers Scholarships and Exhibitions to recognise academic, artistic, musical, sporting and all-round talent.
In accordance with the HMC Rulings, Scholarships and Exhibitions are available for new pupils at entry at 11+ 13+ and 16+. The Scholarships and Exhibitions are competed for openly at pre-announced dates. At 11+ and 13+ awards tend to be modest. Candidates can be reconsidered for new or enhanced awards at 16+.
In principle, it is expected that an award will be held for the duration a pupil is at the school. Awards, however, are regularly reviewed to ensure a pupil is performing at the level expected. If a question is raised about a scholar’s efforts or contribution the Head will write to the parents inviting further discussion.
Academic
At 11+ and 13+ Academic scholarships are awarded following the scholarship assessments in January/February. To achieve an award, the pupil needs to achieve very high standards in the written test papers in English and Maths. In addition, the Head and Deputy Head Academic interview candidates to test their ability to think quickly and handle complex ideas. Good performance in the AH2 (non-verbal reasoning test) is also contributory factor to an award.
In Sixth Form, scholarships are awarded based on an academic paper, interview, school report and predicted or achieved grades. Successful scholarship candidates will have mainly A*/As at GCSE and be looking for entry to demanding courses at top universities.
All Rounder
For our all Rounder award we are looking for someone with the potential to contribute to a number of important areas of school life.
We would expect strong academic performance plus contributions to at least two of the following: sport, music, drama and art.
In addition to that we are looking for leadership potential. Awards will be based on academic tests and two or more specific assessments (See Music, Sports, Art Scholarships), school references and an impressive performance at interview.
Art
Applicants can apply for an Exhibition in Art at 13+ and at Sixth form. Candidates should be able to demonstrate outstanding ability and potential in one or more areas of Art.
Sixth Form candidates should be predicted A* in Art GCSE or related subject.
Drama
Applicants can apply for a Drama Exhibition at 13+ and at Sixth Form.
The Drama scholarship will offer students:
Active support from the Head of Drama both in academic drama and in pursuing theatrical ambitions.
Opportunities to participate in school drama and to learn leadership within Christ College Drama productions
One to one support with any drama school applications. Participation in drama workshops and masterclasses.
Speech and Drama lessons that lead to LAMDA qualifications.
We are looking for students who:
- Can show evidence of a passion for theatre, including performance, technical aspects and enjoyment of watching theatrical productions.
- Have the potential and ambition to develop as an actor/contributor to theatrical productions.
- Show commitment to involvement in school drama both inside and outside the classroom.
- Demonstrate an intention to study drama and to participate and lead in school drama.In order to apply for the Drama Scholarship candidates should produce a one page CV outlining achievements and participation in drama and one or more references from a teacher/director/course organiser. There will be an audition, to include one prepared piece of the candidate’s choice , lasting no more than 2 minutes, and a discussion with the Head of Drama.
In order to apply for the Drama Scholarship candidates should produce a one page CV outlining achievements and participation in drama and one or more references from a teacher/director/course organiser. There will be an audition, to include one prepared piece of the candidate’s choice , lasting no more than 2 minutes, and a discussion with the Head of Drama.
Music
Christ College offers a range of scholarships and exhibitions to recognise, encourage and reward musical talent.
Music award holders are expected to represent the very highest standards in terms of ability and commitment. They will demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for what they do and set an excellent example both within school and in the wider community. In return, they will be supported with individually tailored timetables that allow for maximum time to practise and to receive the appropriate tuition, whether that be at Christ College, or at the RWCMD in Cardiff on Saturdays.
Music award holders will:
- demonstrate a genuine passion for music making at the highest levels
- aim to make the study and rehearsal of Music their first priority
- show evidence of excellent results in practical examinations, auditions and public performance
- show consistent commitment to the improvement of their own skills
- participate in at least two major ensembles or choirs
- perform as a soloist both in and out of school at appropriate events.
- if first study pianists, act as accompanists for soloists and chamber ensembles
- be encouraged to study Music at GCSE ,attend and participate in master classes given by visiting musicians.
The audition process for Music awards is intended to discover musical aptitude, promise and a genuine passion and commitment to producing excellent results. Strong evidence of these key factors will far outweigh any previous results in examinations. However, as a rough guide, candidates in the 11+ age group should normally be at least ABRSM Grade 4 standard on their first study instrument.
At audition, candidates will be asked to:
- Perform two contrasting pieces on their first study instrument;
- Perform one piece on their second study instrument;
- Play scales and arpeggios as directed;
- Perform an appropriate level of sight reading on their first study instrument;
- Complete a set of aural and voice tests;
- Discuss their motivations and intentions in relation to academic and practical aspects of the subject.
Candidates may bring their own accompanist (if applicable) or, if an accompanist is required, the piano part should be sent to the Music department at least one week before the date of the audition.
Science
In addition to an academic award, Sixth Form candidates can apply for a Science scholarship. The award criteria is:
- High performance in Senior Scholarship Science paper
- An excellent interview with the Head of Science and a demonstrable interest in and enthusiasm for science.
A Science Scholar will study at least two Sciences at A Level.
Sport
Sports Awards are open to boys and girls from any school at 13+ and 16+.
We are looking for pupils who meet the normal academic requirements of the school but who also demonstrate outstanding sporting ability, potential determination and enthusiasm. Successful candidates are likely to be of county standard or above in at least one sport. They will also respond well to guidance, work well in a team and demonstrate good leadership skills, whether by example or captaincy.
Sports Award holders should have exceptional talent in one or more sports, normally at least two. Preference will normally be given to those involved in the School’s representational games. Award holders will be expected to be good ambassadors and to demonstrate a willingness to contribute fully to the sporting and general life of the school.
Outdoor Adventure
These scholarships are aimed at outdoor enthusiasts who want to pursue their outdoor based recreational interests alongside achieving academic success.
Who can apply?
- Applicants looking to enter Yr9 and Yr12
- Active members of the Scout & Guide Association
- Active Members of the uniformed youth organisations (Royal Navy Cadets, Army Cadets or Air Cadets)
- Active junior members and competitors of British/Welsh Mountain Biking, Climbing, Paddling, Trail Running/Ultra Marathon clubs
- A genuine desire to experience Adventure
Entry Criteria
Applicants must complete the school’s Registration Process and meet the required entry criteria
Applicants will be invited to the next available scholarship assessment day
At the Assessment Day, applicants will:
- Take part in a challenge based activity
- Have an interview with the Head
- Have an interview with the Director of Outdoor Education to discuss your outdoor CV and ambitions
What will an Outdoor Adventure Scholar get ?
- Up to 20% fee discount
- Access to the extensive Adventure syllabus offered to all pupils
- Opportunity to take part in all Combined Cadet Force activities including outdoor pursuits courses and qualifications
- Leadership training
- Support in ‘Nurturing Your Talent’ in competition and training
- Participation in the CCB Beacon Course (Character Development )
Award Process
Candidates are asked, prior to the assessment day, to provide a brief sporting Curriculum Vitae outlining their achievements to date and a written reference – from a club or county coach or Head of PE for example.
The assessment will consist of the following:
- A series of physical tests, for example speed and agility
- An interview with a member of the games staff to discuss the sporting CV and ambitions of the candidate.
- An interview with the Head
- Academic entrance tests
