SEPT
2027
NEW FAMILIES
GIVING EVERY AMBITION THE SPACE TO GROW
YEAR 7 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME
1
CONTENTS Welcome Role of a scholar Scholarship categories Application pathway Academic Creative arts (art, music, drama) Sport Community 2
WELCOME TO OUR YEAR 7 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME We are delighted you are considering applying for a scholarship for Claremont’s senior school. We believe in the potential of every pupil and encourage all to be ambitious in their goals, to challenge themselves, try new things and thrive both in and beyond the classroom. At Claremont, our scholarship programme nurtures outstanding academic ability, artistic creativity, sporting prowess and commitment to community, and recognises, rewards and inspires a mindset of exceptional curiosity, passion, tenacity and limitless potential. As a scholar, your child will be encouraged to access exceptional enrichment, meaningful mentorship and unique experiences designed to stretch and inspire. Our scholars will proudly champion the Claremont culture, where every pupil is supported to develop into a curious, confident, and compassionate individual. This booklet will guide you through everything you need to know about the scholarship opportunities now open to candidates, including an outline of the programme, criteria, application process, and expectations of our scholars for each specific scholarship programme. We hope the information inspires and informs you as you consider the next steps at Claremont. Please get in touch with our admissions team if you have any questions about the scholarship programme.
William Brierly Head
THE ROLE OF A CLAREMONT SCHOLAR Pupils who awarded a scholarship will be enthusiastic contributors to the life of the school, particularly in the area for which their scholarship has been awarded, fully taking part in the scholarship programme. Scholars are also expected to be role models within the wider school community by mentoring younger pupils, participating in school life, and supporting key events such as open days. To ensure that each pupil continues to benefit from and grow within the programme, all scholarships are reviewed annually. This review looks at the scholar's progress, their contributions to school life, as well as opportunities for further challenge and development. While pupils may apply for any number of scholarships, only one scholarship will be awarded per child. For scholarships to be awarded at Year 7, candidates must first meet the standard admissions entry requirements and be offered a place in the senior school.
CATEGORIES AND STANDOUT BENEFITS YEAR 7 SCHOLARSHIPS As part of our commitment to nurturing talent in all its forms, we offer scholarships in: ACADEMIC
CREATIVE ARTS
SPORT
COMMUNITY
OUR SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME - OVERVIEW Year 7 scholarships at Claremont recognise and support pupils with a passion, whether academic, artistic, sporting, or community-focused. They celebrate individual strengths, recognising not just talent but commitment, potential and the ambition to grow. Scholars join a supportive community where their abilities are nurtured through tailored opportunities and mentoring. The programme encourages curiosity and helps pupils develop both personally and academically through challenge and enrichment. As a Claremont scholar, you will receive: A scholarship from Year 7 to Year 11 (subject to annual reviews) with associated fee remission Personalised mentoring and academic support Access to peer mentorship circles and scholar communities Opportunities to take part in: Category-specific workshops and masterclasses External competitions and independent projects Inspirational talks and speaker events Educational trips and visits Specialist clubs and co-curricular activities
For full details for each specific scholarship programme are outlined later in this booklet.
“APPLYING FOR A SCHOLARSHIP IS STRAIGHTFORWARD AND SUPPORTED WITH GUIDANCE FROM TEACHERS EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.” Claremont pupil
APPLICATION PATHWAY KEY DATES AND SIMPLE STEPS
THE APPLICATION PROCESS INVOLVES THE FOLLOWING STEPS:
LOG INTO OPEN APPLY AND COMPLETE THE APPLICATION PROCESS STEPS
OPEN APPLY
CLOSES: 3 NOVEMBER 2026
STEP 1: VISIT YOUR OPEN APPLY DASHBOARD Log into Open Apply When completing the admissions application form, indicate your interest in applying for a scholarship. This will unlock the scholarship application form in your Open Apply checklist.
Academic scholarships: please note, all Year 7 candidates are automatically considered for an academic scholarship therefore there is no need to apply.
STEP 2: COMPLETE THE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION FORM Fill out the scholarship application form, referring to the checklist and specific information in this guide.
STEP 3: SUBMIT A PERSONAL STATEMENT Upload your child’s personal statement to the Open Apply dashboard using the checklist provided. This must be written by the candidate themselves, giving an overview of their interests and activities relevant to the scholarship application. You can find further details of what to include in the category specific pages in this booklet. STEP 4: PROVIDE REFERENCES You should also upload relevant references via the checklist.
ATTEND AN IN- PERSON SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT
Candidates who are shortlisted will be invited to an inperson scholarship assessment. Further details and specifics are outlined in the individual scholarship category descriptions in this booklet.
SCHOLARSHIP OUTCOMES ISSUED
Outcomes will be notified with the overall offer decision .
Please note that the academic scholarship follows a slightly different process. Please see academic page for full details. End Dec recieve an offer letter
NOVEMBER TO DECEMBER 2026
OFFERS JAN 2027
4
SCHOLARSHIPS BY CATEGORY THE SPECIFICS
Each scholarship offers something unique. In the following pages, you will find detailed information about each individual scholarship category available. The information specifies the benefits of each programme, the eligibility criteria and the assessment process. It outlines the qualities and attributes we seek in prospective scholars and sets out our expectations for those who are awarded scholarships. Please use this to help guide you and you child’s decisions and refer back to it throughout the Open Apply application process.
“THE SCHOLARSHIPS ARE DESIGNED TO MOTIVATE PUPILS TO PUSH THEMSELVES AND GROW WITHIN THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY.” Claremont pupil
8.
ACADEMIC
THIS SCHOLARSHIP IS FOR AMBITIOUS, HIGHACHIEVING STUDENTS WHO ARE CURIOUS, DRIVEN, AND EAGER TO EMBRACE ACADEMIC CHALLENGE BEYOND THE CLASSROOM. PUPILS WHO DEMONSTRATE OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE IN THE ACADEMIC ENTRANCE ASSESSMENTS ARE AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMME OUTLINE Inspire lectures. Part of our academic enrichment provision, the Joyce Grenfell Inspire Lectures feature distinguished speakers from diverse disciplines. These thought-leaders share their insights and experiences to broaden our scholars’ horizons and spark ambition. All academic scholars have the opportunity to take the AQA Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) as an additional qualification. 1:1 academic mentoring. Scholars have access to staff mentors to support their academic progress, personal development, and future aspirations, including 1:1 mentoring for Oxbridge and medicine applications. Internal enrichment opportunities. Scholars participate in school-wide challenges including essay writing, podcast creation and other academic competitions designed to deepen learning and develop independent thinking. External competitions. Opportunities to represent Claremont in national and international academic competitions further extend students’ capabilities. Leadership & mentoring development. Scholars are encouraged to take on leadership roles and act as academic mentors for more junior pupils, building confidence and communication skills. Ongoing academic monitoring. Regular progress reviews ensure that scholars are challenged appropriately and supported throughout their academic journey.
WHAT WE EXPECT FROM OUR SCHOLARS Take full advantage of the academic extension and enrichment programmes on offer at Claremont. Participate in all JGP events including Inspire Lectures and internal competitions. Represent Claremont at external competitions where appropriate. Serve as positive academic role models, inspiring peers and contributing to the school’s intellectual culture. Academic scholarships are dependent on maintaining a high overall standard of achievement, effort and behaviour on the termly grade cards and full report, namely: Consistently achieve grades of A*/A and B (or grades 6 or above in Years 9, 10 and 11) in their grade cards. Achieve engagement (effort) grades of H or S on the termly grade card. HOW TO APPLY FOR AN ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP Please note that candidates do not need to apply for an academic scholarship. All candidates are automatically considered for an academic scholarship.
HOW THE SCHOLARSHIP IS ASSESSED Candidates will demonstrate intellectual curiosity, aspiration and enthusiasm for academic enrichment and development in their interview. Successful candidates will have achieved an outstanding level of performance in their entrance assessments.
CREATIVE ARTS ART DRAMA MUSIC
AT CLAREMONT, WE DEEPLY VALUE CREATIVITY IN ALL ITS FORMS. TO REFLECT THIS, OUR MUSIC, DRAMA, AND ART SCHOLARSHIPS ARE NOW OFFERED TOGETHER UNDER THE UMBRELLA OF THE CREATIVE ARTS SCHOLARSHIP.
CREATIVE ARTS - ART THE YEAR 7 ART SCHOLARSHIP IS AWARDED TO CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE A STRONG CURIOSITY AND ENTHUSIASM FOR VISUAL ARTS, ALONGSIDE CLEAR POTENTIAL FOR CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT.
ART PROGRAMME OUTLINE Scholars are invited to immerse themselves in the weekly art and design club, focusing on either fine art or textiles, providing a dedicated space to refine their technical skills, explore creative processes deepen their conceptual development. Year 8 extension programme. By Year 8, pupils are further encouraged to expand their creative repertoire by joining the photography collective, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to visual expression. Trips and visits. Scholars benefit from carefully curated visits to esteemed London galleries and the botanical artistry of Kew Gardens, enriching their artistic perspective and contextual understanding through direct engagement with professional works and environments. External competitions. Opportunities to participate in external juried exhibitions, such as the Royal Academy of Arts’ Summer Exhibition, engaging in the professional art world and gaining valuable exhibition experience. Workshops, masterclasses and mentoring. The department prides itself on its open-door policy, offering a dynamic studio environment where art scholars can pursue independent projects during lunch breaks throughout the academic year. They have access to a diverse range of media and receive bespoke mentorship to support their artistic growth and individual creative journeys. Leadership development. Scholars are encouraged to take on leadership roles and act as peer mentors for more junior pupils, building confidence and communication skills. Ongoing monitoring. Progress reviews ensure that scholars are challenged appropriately and supported throughout their journey.
Candidates should show originality, a willingness to experiment, and an eagerness to engage with artistic techniques and concepts. This scholarship primarily seeks individuals with the passion and aptitude to flourish in a stimulating artistic environment. WHAT WE EXPECT FROM OUR SCHOLARS Art scholars are expected to: Fully engage with the extension and enrichment opportunities available, including attending clubs, workshops, excursions, and tutorials. Demonstrate ongoing development and refinement of artistic skills throughout their time at Claremont. Represent Claremont with pride at external competitions and events, when selected. Serve as positive role models within the school community, inspiring peers and contributing actively to the school’s vibrant creative culture. Achieve engagement (effort) grades of H or S on grade cards. HOW THE SCHOLARSHIP IS ASSESSED Candidates will be invited in for a group art session. This will include a drawing assessment where they will be asked to draw from observation using pencil and tone. There will be a warm-up drawing exercise before being asked to carry out a more sustained study. During the drawing assessment, candidates will be asked to speak with the head of art about the work they have selected to bring and discuss an artist’s work that has inspired them over the past year. PERSONAL STATEMENT Please upload the candidate’s personal statement (no more than one side of A4) via Open Apply detailing their creative interests and activities, including information on their possible contribution to the senior school as a creative arts scholar and their future aspirations.
CREATIVE ARTS - DRAMA THE YEAR 7 DRAMA SCHOLARSHIP IS AWARDED TO CANDIDATES WHO DISPLAY A STRONG ENTHUSIASM FOR PERFORMANCE, ALONGSIDE CLEAR POTENTIAL FOR CREATIVE GROWTH.
DRAMA PROGRAMME OUTLINE Performance. Scholars have the opportunity to take part in a variety of productions, performances and workshop-style clubs during their time at Claremont, nurturing a deeper passion for theatre while developing both on-stage and behind-the-scenes skills. Drama extension clubs. Scholars and pupils with a passion for theatre are invited to immerse themselves in the weekly drama club, focusing on developing their skills and offering pupils a wealth of performance and backstage opportunities. Trips and visits. Scholars have the opportunity to participate in specialist theatre trips, enhancing their experience and deepening their appreciation of the art form, including access to GCSE and A Level theatre trips where appropriate. Workshops, masterclasses and mentoring. 1:1 coaching for auditions. Technical support. Specialised technical help from the theatre technicians. Broadening experience. The opportunity to develop skills from both the director and designer point of view. Leadership development. Scholars are encouraged to take on leadership roles and act as peer mentors for more junior pupils, building confidence and communication skills. Ongoing monitoring. Progress reviews ensure that scholars are challenged appropriately and supported throughout their journey.
Candidates should demonstrate aptitude, confidence and a willingness to explore a range of dramatic styles and techniques. Above all, the scholarship seeks individuals with a genuine passion for drama and the potential to thrive within a dynamic and collaborative performing arts environment. WHAT WE EXPECT FROM OUR SCHOLARS Drama scholars are expected to: Show full commitment to the drama co-curricular and enrichment offering, including attendance at weekly clubs, workshops, excursions, and tutorials. Take a leading role in public speaking at assemblies, services and other events. Audition for, and actively take part in, performance opportunities within the school. Serve as positive role models within the school community, inspiring peers and contributing to the school’s vibrant creative culture. Actively engage with the department, showing a clear ambition and dedication to fulfilling your dramatic potential whether on stage or behind the scenes, along with enthusiasm for your role as a drama scholar and ambassador for the drama department. Achieve engagement (effort) grades of H or S on grade cards. HOW THE SCHOLARSHIP IS ASSESSED Candidates will be invited for an engaging group drama workshop with our head of drama. As part of this workshop, candidates should prepare a monologue of 1-2 minutes to perform. PERSONAL STATEMENT Please upload the candidate’s personal statement (no more than one side of A4) via Open Apply detailing their creative interests and activities, clubs and performances, including information on their possible contribution to the senior school as a creative arts scholar and their future aspirations.
CREATIVE ARTS - MUSIC
THE YEAR 7 MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP IS AWARDED TO CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE GENUINE INTEREST, COMMITMENT AND ACHIEVEMENT IN MUSIC. The scholarship seeks young musicians who show strong musical potential, dedication to developing their talents and a passion for contributing to the school’s musical life.We welcome applications from musically engaged and enthusiastic students as part of our 11+ admissions process.
MUSIC PROGRAMME OUTLINE Performance opportunities. Scholars have numerous opportunities to perform throughout the school year – as soloists and ensemble members – in concerts, teatime recitals, school events and public performances. Ensemble involvement. Development of key skills such as musical awareness, teamwork, discipline, confidence, leadership and adaptability. Masterclasses and workshops. Participation in sessions led by visiting professionals and specialist tutors. Individual support. Tailored mentoring and guidance from a member of the music staff. Performance feedback. Constructive feedback following performances to support ongoing development. Leadership opportunities. Roles within the department, including mentoring younger pupils and leading rehearsals or projects. Trips and visits. Participation in music department trips, concerts and cultural experiences. Project involvement. Scholars are encouraged to play an active role in shaping and leading future music department initiatives, contributing ideas and helping to define new projects. Ongoing monitoring. Progress reviews ensure that scholars are challenged appropriately and supported throughout their journey.
While formal music grades are not required, applicants should be performing at a standard equivalent to Grade 3 ABRSM/Trinity or higher on their principal instrument or voice.
WHAT WE EXPECT FROM OUR SCHOLARS Music scholars are expected to demonstrate a high level of commitment and enthusiasm throughout their time in the programme. Specifically they will: Commit fully to the school’s co-curricular music programme, regularly attending weekly ensemble rehearsals as agreed with the director of music. Any absences should be communicated in advance. Perform regularly in school assemblies, concerts, events and open mornings – both as part of agreed ensembles and, where appropriate, as a soloist. Demonstrate a positive and engaged attitude towards their musical development and progress. Attend review meetings to reflect on their engagement and set goals; achieving engagement (effort) grades of H or S on grade cards. Candidates should be able to demonstrate technical fluency, musical expression, and stylistic awareness appropriate to Grade 3 level or above. While only one instrument or voice is required, applicants who can offer a second instrument or voice at a good standard may be at an advantage.
HOW THE SCHOLARSHIP IS ASSESSED The assessment will take the form of a practical workshop with the Director of Music. Candidates should prepare one piece on their principal instrument or voice. An accompanist will be provided. Any backing tracks or specific equipment requirements such as amps should be sent through in advance. A second piece on an additional instrument or voice may be prepared, although time constraints may not allow for it to be heard.
PERSONAL STATEMENT Please upload the candidate’s personal statement (no more than one side of A4) via Open Apply detailing their musical interests, activities, grade achievements and performances. Include information on their possible contribution to the senior school as a creative arts scholar and future aspirations.
SPORT
SPORTS SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AWARDED TO CANDIDATES WITH A PROVEN HIGH LEVEL OF SPORTING ABILITY AND POTENTIAL. SPORTS SCHOLARS ARE EXPECTED TO CONTRIBUTE FULLY TO SCHOOL SPORT THROUGH TRAINING AND FIXTURES, SERVE AS POSITIVE ROLE MODELS BY SUPPORTING AND INSPIRING OTHERS.
SPORT PROGRAMME OUTLINE Specialist 1:1 mentoring. Scholars will benefit from the sports mentoring programme, matching scholars with a specialist sports mentor from the staff team, who will support and advise them individually. Strength and conditioning. Scholars have access to weekly strength and conditioning training sessions. Sports tours. Scholars have the opportunity to join sports tours taking place nationally and internationally. Competitions. Opportunities to represent Claremont in local and national competitions. Leadership & mentoring development. Scholars are encouraged to take on leadership roles and act as mentors for more junior pupils, building confidence, experience and communication skills. Workshops and masterclasses.
WHAT WE EXPECT FROM OUR SCHOLARS Sports scholars are expected to: Contribute fully to the sporting life of the school, taking part in weekly training and represent Claremont in a variety of sporting fixtures. Scholars are expected to participate in all team matches for which they are selected. Serve as positive role models within the school community, including assisting at training sessions where appropriate, inspiring peers and mentoring younger pupils to develop. Achieve engagement (effort) grades of H or S on grade cards. HOW THE SCHOLARSHIP IS ASSESSED All scholarship applications will be reviewed by the senior leaders and directors of sport for shortlisting purposes. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a practical assessment where they will be assessed in a variety of fundamental motor skills as well as their ability in a number of activities. PERSONAL STATEMENT Please upload a personal statement (of no more than one side of A4) via Open Apply to include information on:How long the candidate has been participating in their chosen sport or sports. The school/club/county or national participation levels and courses attended. Any awards gained (along with awarding body / level/ year achieved). Positions of responsibility held in teams, i.e. captain. Their sporting aspirations. Information about their interests (sporting or otherwise) in and out of school. Any other relevant information.
COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIPS ARE UNIQUE TO CLAREMONT. THEY RECOGNISE CANDIDATES WITH OUTSTANDING DEDICATION TO CITIZENSHIP THROUGH SERVICE, VOLUNTEERING, CHARITY WORK, OR ADVOCACY. SCHOLARS ARE EXPECTED TO CONTRIBUTE ACTIVELY TO THE SCHOOL’S COMMUNITY AND CHARITABLE CAUSES, DEMONSTRATING STRONG POTENTIAL TO LEAD AND INSPIRE OTHERS.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMME OUTLINE Scholars will receive support and mentorship to become exemplary role models of citizenship within our community and foster leadership, teamwork and reflective thinking. Scholars are invited to take part in the wider enrichment programme, including the Joyce Grenfell Aspire Programme, offering small-group, lunchtime sessions exploring topics beyond the curriculum, such as law, current affairs, computer science, classics, and psychology, encouraging critical thinking and interdisciplinary curiosity. Scholars participate in school-wide challenges including essay writing, podcast creation, and other competitions, designed to deepen learning, develop independent thinking and enhance awareness of cultural and environmental issues. Partnership opportunities with local organisations, provide valuable opportunities for scholars to engage in fundraising, community outreach and awareness campaigns. Peer mentorship opportunities, to be trained as mentors for younger pupils and opportunities to assist with activities and events taking place for younger years, developing their leadership and communication skills. In addition, scholars have the opportunity to study citizenship as part of their formal academic curriculum, further embedding their understanding of civic responsibility and social impact.
WHAT WE EXPECT FROM OUR SCHOLARS Community scholars are expected to: Contribute fully to the life of the school, taking part in open mornings, assemblies and other events. Be an active member of the school council committees, attending meetings and spearheading projects. Take a leading role in whole school initiatives, such as the organisation of Christmas hampers, mental health awareness week and many more. Serve as positive role models within the school community, inspiring peers and mentoring younger pupils, including volunteering with younger year groups where appropriate. Maintain a community engagement portfolio to reflect on their development. Achieve engagement (effort) grades of H or S on grade cards. HOW THE SCHOLARSHIP IS ASSESSED In addition to the personal statement submission, candidates will be invited to a friendly interview where they will have the chance to talk about their ideas and share examples of how they have shown kindness, leadership, or community spirit, whether at school, at clubs, or in their local community. We are looking for enthusiastic young people who want to make a positive difference in the world around them. PERSONAL STATEMENT As part of the assessment for the community scholarship, candidates are asked to submit a short written paper on a topic of their choice, which stands as their personal statement. This could be an idea for a fundraising project or a way to raise awareness about an issue they care about - such as helping others, protecting the environment, or supporting a local cause.
Claremont Drive, Esher, Surrey, KT10 9LY
www.claremont.net
01372 467841