13+ Scholarships
The number and value of the awards made each year depends on the quality of the candidates. They are available to all applicants, including current pupils at The Leys who are within the age range. In the case of external candidates the Headmaster/Headmistress of their present school should be informed of your intention, as his/her signature is needed for the Scholarship Forms and they may be able to offer advice. All external candidates for entry to The Leys are required to undertake the standard academic tests in the January of the year of entry.
Application
All candidates must first be registered for entry. Scholarship application forms can be obtained from the Examination page. Specimen papers are normally sent directly to the candidate's school. In the case of a candidate not attending an independent school, parents may obtain papers from the Examinations page.
Programme
An outline programme will be sent to the candidate's school and also to his/her parents or guardian in advance of the Scholarship exams and interviews. The dates for the Scholarship assessments are held in late January of the year of entry.
13+ Academic Awards
These awards are made for academic excellence. Those wishing to be considered for an academic award will take five extension papers. All candidates will take papers in English, Mathematics and Science. Candidates will also take two elective papers selected from French, German, Spanish, History, Geography, Divinity, Latin or Greek.
The requirements for each paper are in the Current Information Booklet (see Printed Material).
13+ Music Scholarships
As a general guide, candidates are normally expected to have reached the standard required for Associated Board Grade V. Singing experience may be taken as an equivalent, especially for candidates who are Cathedral Choristers. Choral and Organ awards may be made and any instrument may be offered. Musicianship and potential are more important than present attainment. Candidates are expected to play two contrasting pieces on any instrument offered (or sing two songs if singing is offered). They will be asked to play a piece at sight, and may also be asked to play scales and arpeggios, or perform aural tests similar to those of the Associated Board. Holders of Music Awards at The Leys are expected to play a full and active part in the music making of the School.
13+ Sports Scholarships
Candidates are expected to show a high level of proficiency and commitment in at least two major sports, chosen from Rugby, Hockey, Cricket, Netball and Tennis. As an alternative, candidates may choose one sport from those listed and specify another, which is not listed. Candidates will be interviewed and participate in practical tests, which are designed to test their skills and fitness. They will also, where possible, participate in team games (reduced sides). Each candidate will be assessed in two sports. Candidates will be expected to provide a full CV of their sporting involvement and to provide the name and address of a person able to provide a supporting statement.
13+ Art Scholarships
Candidates will be asked to sit a drawing test involving an observational study. This will take place in the main studio of the Art Department and will last between two-three hours. Materials will be provided. Candidates will be expected to submit a portfolio and/or sketchbook of recent material reflecting the full range of their work (this should mainly be work produced in the last year). Examples or photographs of any three-dimensional work should also be included and they are very welcome to bring any other work that they feel is relevant. Candidates will also have a short interview with the Art Department staff. They will be encouraged to discuss either an Art exhibition recently visited or some piece of an artist's work that they particularly like.
13+ Design Technology Scholarships
Candidates will be asked to undertake a selection of 'design and make' problem solving exercises lasting three hours. Candidates should bring a selection of work, both two and three-dimensional, that reflects a high standard of skill and creativity. They may bring photographs of projects that are too large to transport. Candidates will have a short interview with the Design Technology staff.
13+ Drama Scholarships
All candidates will be interviewed and will be asked to demonstrate excellence in either (a) Dramatic Performance or (b) Technical Skills. Candidates will be expected to demonstrate a strong appreciation of theatre, an understanding of production issues and knowledge of theatre outside the school context.
(A) Dramatic Performance
Candidates will be asked to perform a solo piece of their choosing, which may be one with which they are already familiar. Candidates should also expect to be assessed in a group setting where improvisation skills will be observed. Candidates offering a dramatic performance will be asked about the performance they have given, previous performances (where appropriate) and their ambitions in this area.
(B) Technical work
Candidates will be asked to provide evidence of work they have completed for a production in any area of technical theatre. Set, costume and make-up work will be primarily considered in theatrical rather than artistic terms. Evidence should include, in all cases, notes, diagrams and photographs/video (where appropriate). Candidates should have a proven commitment to working backstage in a theatre, be prepared to develop their skills and be capable of working efficiently and well in a team. Candidates offering technical work will be asked in detail about the material they have brought.
13+ Neil White Scholarships (All Rounder)
Candidates who enter for more than one category of scholarship will also automatically be considered for a Neil White Scholarship. These scholarships are awarded to pupils who are able to contribute at a very high standard in two or three different fields, and also show potential for leadership. In accordance with the original terms of this award, preference will be given to candidates who wish to board.