Scholarships 

Hear from Emma, Academic Scholar, Upper Fourth

“Being an Academic Scholar at Benenden hasn’t really changed my day-to-day life very much, but it has opened up new opportunities that I might not have noticed otherwise.

I earned my scholarship by getting good marks in the entrance exam. At first I was quite surprised, as I had no idea I was good enough to get one! At my old school, we weren’t told exactly how high our grades were, so when I found out, it gave me a major confidence boost. 

As an Academic Scholar, I attend Hut 6, which is at the heart of the School’s academic extension programme. Anyone can join, but for Academic Scholars it is an essential, compulsory part of the programme. It’s a chance to explore new topics and challenge ourselves in different ways.

At the start of term, I applied to be a Centenary Scholar, which is a smaller, more refined version of Hut 6, and I was awarded that too. In one session, we discussed Milton Friedman’s ideas, which I found quite difficult at first, but I managed to grasp the concept and start forming my own opinions. 

One of the most interesting topics we’ve covered in Hut 6 was the etymology of words with the prefix con-. I really enjoyed this because many of the words have Latin roots, and Latin is one of my favourite subjects.

Last year, I also wrote a Hut 6 project essay about how regeneration is relevant in The Repair Shop, which was a challenge, but I managed to complete it. 

Overall, being a scholar has given me more confidence and motivation to push myself in lessons. I feel proud to be part of the programme, and it encourages me to keep working hard and trying new things!”

How do you qualify?

Successful applicants will have proven their academic prowess by achieving the highest levels in Benenden-set exams, as well as impressing in interview and group activities.

What are the expectations?

Academic Scholars should take advantage of the Academic Extension Programme, engage in lessons and act as role models in the classroom, completing work and tests to a high standard and proactively seek out challenge.

What are the benefits?

Scholars enjoy membership of Hut 6, enjoying debates, demonstrations and completing independent projects centred on a specific theme. They can also apply to be a Centenary Scholar, engaging in Oxbridge-style tutorial sessions and discussing challenging academic articles and concepts.

Hear from Mary, Art Scholar, Six Two

“I was thrilled when I was awarded a Benenden Art Scholarship at 13+. To me, it was a recognition that I might have the potential to develop the enjoyment of art that I had developed at my prep school.

Art has always been an escape for me. When I am drawing or painting, I can fully immerse myself in the artwork, and this has continued to be the case at Benenden.

In my lower years, my work gravitated towards creating conventional art with a subject matter that interested me. However, with Benenden’s fantastic teaching, my art has developed, exploring new techniques and processes. Art has a deeper and more personal meaning to me.

Being an Art Scholar has given me opportunities like joining inspirational talks and gallery trips. I was very pleased to get a 9 at GCSE, which reflected the fantastic teaching I had received and the hard work I’d put in.

Another highlight for me was receiving a private painting commission. I now enjoy creating art that is innovative and progressive, and constantly developing my ideas.

My Art Scholarship has been key to my time at Benenden, and as a result of it my art life outside of School has blossomed. Most importantly my Art Scholarship has given me confidence in myself, not just in terms of my art, but in the assurance that hard work and diligence pays off.”

How do you qualify?

Successful Art Scholars will have a record of involvement with Art activities both in an out of school, with evidence of attending exhibitions and events linked to Art. They’ll display a passion for Art beyond that taught by tutors and teachers.

What are the expectations?

Art Scholars act as ambassadors for the subject and work independently beyond the level set in the classroom, taking part in at least one extra art project a year and mentoring younger Art students as they progress through the School.

What are the benefits?

Art Scholars enjoy regular mentoring, with access to enrichment and super-curricular opportunities such as gallery visits, workshops and masterclasses. They enter competitions, enjoy one-to-one specialist support and can be trained in the use of specialist materials or processes. Trips in the UK and abroad help to widen their experience of Art.

Hear from Mia, Creative Technology Scholar, Fifth

“Creative Technology is one of my favourite subjects, so when the opportunity to become a CT Scholar came around I knew that this was something I should try to achieve.

When I was in the younger years, CT was always my favourite subject. I found it interesting, and as a creative person it was a great opportunity to branch out from the more traditional things we were doing in Art.

An example of this could be when we made and designed paper jewellery, or when we learnt how to create a digital portrait in Adobe Illustrator.

When I signed up to try and become a CT Scholar, I had to make a portfolio of some things I had made that I was proud of. This mainly consisted of things I had made outside of School at that point. Along with submitting a few things I had done in the past, I also made lots of new things. This was great, as I was learning lots of new skills before I had even become a Scholar.

On the day that we completed the task it was nice to see what everybody else had put in their portfolio. A few weeks after I was happy to hear that I had been accepted as a CT Scholar.

Since then, I have started the GCSE course and am on my second project. It has been great to see everybody’s ideas and designs, and to support my peers with their work from time to time.

So far I am still enjoying the subject and have created some interesting pieces and have gained lots of new skills.

I am very proud to be a CT Scholar as well as a CT student, and I will continue to strive for my best in the subject with the support of the amazing and lovely department.”

How do you qualify?

Those applying for a Creative Technology Scholarship will need to demonstrate their interest in discovering how technology links with developed products.

What are the expectations?

CT Scholars will spend additional time in the Workshop and Innovation Suite, developing skills with the physical and digital tools available. Each Scholar will be expected to develop their own project during the year, alongside promoting the department in School and across the wider community.

What are the benefits?

Like Art Scholars, CT Scholarship holders enjoy a range of mentoring and super-curricular opportunities. They will be invited to enter competitions, as well as gallery visits, workshops and masterclasses, with opportunities for one-to-one support and training with specialist materials or processes. They will also enjoy trips in the UK and abroad to broaden their knowledge and understanding of the subject.

Hear from Petra, Drama Scholar, Upper Fifth

“I think one of the best things about my role as a Drama Scholar is the opportunities it gives me to pursue my love of all the different aspects of theatre.

The Scholar’s Play, a production of Emilia by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm, was an especially amazing opportunity, which I felt so fortunate to have been a part of.

The play followed the life story of Emilia Bassano, and was written at a time of speculation surrounding her relationship with Shakespeare and the impact this may have had on his writing – particularly Othello, which features a character named after her.

I played both a lady in waiting and the role of Emilia in Othello, which posed a huge challenge regarding my versatility as an actress, as one role was very comical and the other more serious and technical.

While this was difficult, it completely changed my perception of my performance and acting in general – something that could only have been possible in such an inspiring environment with people from multiple year groups all united by a shared passion for the subject. This, I think, is what makes Scholars’ performances so special.

That said, one of my favourite elements of the Scholarship is the way it enables you to inspire younger years and instil an enjoyment of Drama and theatre that will last for the rest of their lives, whether that’s in performance, design or simply the experience. This, for me, is one of the most meaningful parts of my role.”

How do you qualify?

Scholars should have a proven involvement in Drama activities as a performer or backstage, and should have seen a mixed programme of live theatre and read a variety of play texts. A successful applicant will be a strong performer or a committed technician or designer, and be able to work creatively in a group.

What are the expectations?

Drama Scholars act as ambassadors for the subject, motivating others in Drama activities and actively working beyond classroom level. They will be called on to help with creative projects such as mentoring and aiding GCSE devising projects, and helping to run Drama events including House Dram, performance evenings, open day events and rehearsals.

What are the benefits?

Drama Scholars will enjoy select screenings for Theatre Online, Drama socials including live theatre trips, and Participation in the Scholars’ Play. As they progress through the School, they will develop their leadership and creative management by assisting and supporting Lower School Drama, and by mentoring and advising younger students.

How do you qualify?

A student applying for a Music Award should be able to demonstrate evidence of musical potential and qualities of self-motivation and high achievement; this is more important than previous exam results. A minimum standard of approximately Grade 4/5 on a primary instrument is required at 11+, Grade 5/6 at 13+ and Grade 7/8 at 16+. Benenden has traditionally had a number of outstanding pianists, but Music Scholars are expected to also be proficient on an orchestral instrument or as a choral singer to ensure they play a significant part in School ensembles.

What happens in the Music Scholarship audition?

Parents of potential Music Scholars are strongly encouraged to arrange a pre-audition for their daughter two or three years before the year of entry. This can take place in Benenden, in London, or when the Director of Music is in Hong Kong or China, and it is a valuable opportunity to gain feedback, support and encouragement ahead of an application.

Scholarship Auditions take place in late January in the year of entry to the School, usually in person, but sometimes using a combination of pre-recorded videos and an interview via Microsoft Teams.

Auditions can be tailored to each individual, but candidates normally perform three contrasting pieces across one, two or three instruments following a short rehearsal with the School Accompanist. The audition also includes a Quick Study after 10 minutes of practice time, as well as some aural tests, basic theory questions and an interview.

What are the expectations?

Music Award holders are expected to maintain high standards in all that they do, and to act as ambassadors for the Department through their personal practice, their performances, and in the example they set within ensembles.

What are the benefits?

Music Scholars receive 60 minutes of free instrumental or vocal tuition per week which is credited on the School bill, and Music Exhibitioners 30 minutes. Beyond their lessons, Scholars also have a weekly 30 minute class with the School Accompanist. They also take part in a wide range of concerts, events and masterclasses and attend the annual Music Award holders dinner.

Hear from Elsie, Music Scholar, Six One

“Music is widely appreciated by the whole community at Benenden, and as a Music Scholar, music doubtlessly forms a great part of my life at School. Playing as part of the School’s Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Band, Chamber Music ensembles, or just playing with friends are among the highlights of my week.

Being a Music Scholar has given me some of the most inspirational and memorable experiences as an organist, pianist and occasional drummer. The Department’s amazing facilities act as a concert venue which regularly invites many of the world’s leading musicians. From Sheku Kanneh-Mason to Angela Hewitt, and even the Jazz classic Ronnie Scott’s, these concerts form invaluable experiences for passionate musicians at Benenden. Scholars often have the opportunity to enjoy masterclasses, Q&As or intimate recitals with the performers. These interactions with professionals are always rewarding and encouraging.

At the same time, consistent musical contributions are required from Scholars. This includes playing regularly in orchestras and ensembles, singing in choirs and performing in concerts. Often Scholars are also invited to perform for School events both on and off site, as well as for charity evenings and even for School productions.

But, of course, your presence is also required at the annual Scholars’ dinner, which is always a real treat to look forward to!

The expectations for Music Scholars are sometimes demanding, but adaptable to what one strives for. I have always felt strongly encouraged by the warmest support from all the Music staff. Being a Music Scholar has allowed me to stretch the limits of my potential and to achieve so much that I wouldn’t have thought was possible.

I am extremely honoured for my talents and achievements to be recognised and am more than grateful to have found a group of friends that, through the sharing of our passion in music, has made my musical experience at Benenden such a highlight.”

Hear from Emily, Sport Scholar, Lower Fifth

“For me, being a Sport Scholar means that I can immerse myself into a whole new side of Sport and be supported throughout with excellent coaching. It’s about being able to push myself and taking my sport as far as I want to.

Sport has always been my favourite thing to do, and at Benenden I’ve loved how I’ve been able to throw myself into a whole range of different sports! So far, I’ve learnt several new sports such as Lacrosse and Squash, and each of these are now big favourites of mine.

Being a Sport Scholar means that I am being given such amazing opportunities with every sport I play. Whether it is the extra Cricket lessons, Tennis lessons or being able to sign myself up for every Sport!

Another major aspect of the Sport Scholarship is the Strength and Conditioning Programme, which enables me to help keep up my athleticism and focus on key elements of where I may struggle a bit or want to build. By doing this it, means that I can go fully out onto the sports field and give it my 110%!

We are also offered a range of different interactive workshops where people come in and talk to us about their sporting careers or exploring into ideas of how we can improve our mental and physical game.

An example of this is when Lee Waters came to visit us. During our workshop, we were shown the importance of the visual system using special technology, which provided us of examples to help improve in both Sport and day-to-day life!

Being a Sport Scholar means having a responsibility. It means that I must set a good example to others, be a good team player and step up when I need to.

Overall, I think that being a Sport Scholar is the most amazing experience. It doesn’t just give you skills like teamwork, resilience and communication for Sport – these skills will last with you for life.”

How do you qualify?

Potential Sport Scholars are assessed by their current performance and their sporting potential. At 11+ they will show promise in a variety of sports and show themselves to be a coachable athlete. At 13+ they will be assessed on their sport-specific technical ability, athleticism and mindset.

What are the expectations?

Sport Scholars should show commitment, consistently performing at the highest level and contributing to the Sports Programme at Benenden. They will be expected to attend all Scholar sessions and events, including strength and conditioning sessions, workshops and meetings with coaches.

What are the benefits?

At 11+ the benefits of a Sport Scholarship include specialised coaching to support athletic development and nurture talent across a variety of sports. 13+ Scholars receive regular sessions with highly qualified coaches to help development as an athlete and individual. Sport Scholars of all ages benefit from access to weekly, individually-tailored strength and conditioning sessions.