Scholarships

Applications are invited from students whose academic performance is very strong across the curriculum. Applicants must be highly motivated, enthusiastic in their academic and extra-curricular pursuits and possess the skills and characteristics that will make them strong role models to their peers.

Academic scholars are expected to set an exemplary standard in class and to get involved with extension opportunities. Award holders will be provided with opportunities to broaden their experiences and enhance their critical thinking and communication skills through participation in group activities and trips where appropriate.

Applicants will sit an essay-based paper, lasting 30 to 45 minutes depending on year of entry. In addition candidates will have an interview with the Scholars’ Officer, and will be expected to discuss their ideas arising from their essay and defend any viewpoints that they may have articulated.

Year 7: Unlike all other awards, applications for this scholarship are not made until the students have joined Year 7, in order for candidates to have settled into the new routine of the academic year in the Senior School. The essay based paper lasts 30 minutes.

Year 9: Internal and external candidates will be assessed during the entrance examination week. The essay based paper lasts 30 minutes.

Lower Sixth: Applications are particularly invited from students whose academic performance is very strong in essay based subjects. Those scholars in the Sixth Form will be encouraged to run academic societies for the benefit of students throughout the school. The essay based paper lasts 45 minutes.

STEM scholars should be enthusiastic about Science and Mathematics and should be keen to apply their scientific and mathematical knowledge to design, making and problem-solving tasks.

STEM scholars are expected to set a good example in Science and Mathematics lessons and show commitment to at least one of the extra-curricular STEM clubs. They may be asked to contribute a piece of work for the school magazine or showcase a project at the scholars' evening.

Year 9: Applicants are required to prepare a three minute presentation on an aspect of Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics which has inspired them. They will also sit a test which will assess their thinking skills. The applicant will have the opportunity to give their presentation, talk about their interests and participate in a practical problem solving activity during the interview with the STEM Co-ordinator and another member of the Senior Leadership Team.

Lower Sixth: STEM scholars will be encouraged to attend STEM initiatives out of school that will support their university applications, such as the Headstart and Smallpeice Trust residential courses. Applicants are required to prepare a five minute presentation on an aspect of Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics which has inspired them.

They will also sit a test which will assess their thinking skills. The applicant will have the opportunity to give their presentation, talk about their interests and participate in a practical problem solving activity during the interview with the STEM Co-ordinator.

Take a look at some sample papers and preparation information:

- 13+ STEM scholarship exam 2019-2020

- 13+ STEM scholarship mark scheme 2019-2020

- Preparation for 13+ STEM scholarship exam

- Preparation for 16+ STEM scholarship exam 

Art scholars are expected to demonstrate artistic talent and creativity, as well as show a strong commitment to the subject, both at home and in school.

Year 7 and Year 9

Applicants are required to submit a portfolio and/or sketchbook of recent artwork by the application deadline: ideally this work should have been produced in the last year. A range of work should be shown and should also include evidence of:

• Direct observational drawings (these may take the form of pages from a sketchbook or on loose paper)
• Secondary source drawings (these may take the form of pages from a sketchbook or on loose paper)
• An example of an outcome created using paint
• Examples of photographic and/or digital artwork
• At least three pieces of substantial finished artwork which can include either 2D, 3D or both (we are looking for evidence of quality and not quantity)
• Evidence of having looked at and been interested in the work of artists and/or designers from either the past or present
• Evidence of having participated in art clubs or workshops either in school or outside of school
• Evidence of having visited permanent collections and temporary exhibitions to museums or art galleries within the last year

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in an interview with the Head of Art, during which they will be expected to talk about their wider interest in the subject. Shortlisted applicants are also welcome to share any other artwork which they feel may be of interest. Please remember we are looking for quality and diversity of skill. 

Lower Sixth

Applicants are required to submit a portfolio and/or sketchbook of GCSE artwork and any artwork produced independently i.e. participation in an art workshop or evening class. A range of work should be shown and should also include evidence of:

• Direct observational drawings (these may take the form of pages from a sketchbook or on loose paper)
• Secondary source drawings (these may take the form of pages from a sketchbook or on loose paper)
• An ability to research and develop ideas for a final piece of work (these may take the form of pages from a sketchbook or on loose paper)
• An example of an outcome created using paint
• Examples of photographic and/or digital artwork
• At least five pieces of substantial finished artwork which can include either 2D, 3D or both (we are looking for evidence of quality and not quantity)
• Evidence of having looked at and been interested in the work of artists and/or designers from either the past or present
• Evidence of having participated in art clubs or workshops either in school or outside of school
• Evidence of having visited permanent collections and temporary exhibitions to museums or art galleries within the last year

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in an interview with the Head of Art, during which they will be expected to talk about their wider interest in the subject. Shortlisted applicants are also welcome to bring along any other artwork which they feel may be of interest. Please remember we are looking for quality and diversity of skill. 

Creative Writing scholars are expected to demonstrate a flair for the written word, creativity and imagination. They should enjoy writing, both at home and at school, and should be keen to develop their interest by taking advantage of the opportunities at St Mary’s.

They will also be expected to contribute pieces to the school magazine and other publications and help to run events celebrating the written word throughout the school year. Older Creative Writing scholars will also have responsibility for helping to mentor younger Creative Writing scholars throughout the school.

Applicants are required to submit a portfolio of work by the application deadline. They should choose six to 10 pieces of writing to include. These can be in a range of forms (poems, short stories, descriptive writing, monologues, diary entries, autobiographical writing etc.) and should demonstrate the following:

• Creativity and original thought
• Exciting and interesting use of language and vocabulary
• Sensitivity and thoughtfulness
• A good awareness of how to engage the reader
• An interesting and thought provoking approach to a range of themes/ideas

Applicants may, if they wish, include a short commentary on each of their pieces explaining where they took inspiration from and what they were trying to achieve. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in an interview with the Head of English, during which they will be expected to talk about their interest in creative writing.

Dance is celebrated as a vibrant and exciting art form at St Mary’s. Dance scholars are expected to demonstrate technical skill and artistry in one or more dance genres, evidenced where appropriate through examination or competition achievement.

We would expect Dance scholars to continue to show commitment to dance through study outside of school. Dance scholars will be required to participate in the Dance Showcase and other dance-related activities in school (such as running a dance club or assisting in a dance club for younger or less experienced girls).

Applicants at all entry levels are required to submit a short portfolio illustrating their dance activities and a DVD/video or other media of them dancing. The portfolio should include:

• Details of dance examinations and grades achieved, including the most recent certificate
• A short description of ‘What dance means to you’ (100-300 words)
• A short review of a recent production the applicant has seen (100-200 words)

The DVD/video must comprise two dances danced by the applicant with the following criteria:

• One to two minutes in length
• One of the dances must be choreographed by the applicant
• One of the dances may be from the applicant’s current syllabus or choreographed by a teacher

Following the viewing of all submitted portfolio and videos, applicants will be shortlisted.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an audition, presenting their choice of one of the two dances from their application video. Applicants should wear any dance attire (if required) and warm up before the audition. If interviewing virtually, then webcams should be well-positioned so that the performance can be viewed in full. Applicants will also be interviewed by the Dance Co-ordinator on aspects of their portfolio.

While everyone’s experience of dance is different and not all dance is developed through a formal syllabus, an approximate minimum standards benchmark would be as follows:

• Age 11+ - Grade 3
• Age 13+ - Grade 5
• Age 16+ - Grade 7/Inter Foundation

Applicants are expected to submit evidence of enterprising tasks and activities they have carried out independently both at school and at home or in clubs and competitions.

They will be expected to participate in extra-curricular clubs and activities, such as STEM clubs, and to be an ambassador for the Technology department at events such as the Technology Showcase.

The work submitted should be varied and include evidence of:

• Use of resources – finding ideas for creation from a range of different areas
• Showing a flair for creativity and innovation
• Independent work – adapting and adjusting to challenges, working systematically and logically
• Visits to Design and Enterprise related exhibitions/events/fairs
• Capacity for creative thought
• Extended background knowledge of Technology related issues/interests

If shortlisted the applicants are invited to attend an interview with the Head of Technology.

Drama is a dynamic and creative art form and a hugely popular subject at St Mary’s. Our Drama scholars are expected, where possible, to participate fully in the extra-curricular theatre programme afforded to them and be excellent ambassadors for the Drama department.

Involvement in productions may be predominately as a performer but older scholars may find themselves being a director, technician, choreographer, stage hand or stage manager, and may also find themselves running a Drama club, staffing front of house or working backstage. In any of these roles, holders of a Drama scholarship will demonstrate reliability, commitment, team work and a high level of skill.

We are fully aware that our scholars may have particular ability in one style of theatre (for example, physical theatre, mask work, musical theatre, naturalistic or comedy drama). We also understand that students may struggle with particular theatrical forms, as the performance field is so wide and varied; it’s about finding your gifts and sharing them with the drama community here at St Mary’s School, Cambridge.

Applicants are required to submit a short portfolio illustrating their drama activities and a DVD/video of a monologue. The portfolio should include:

• Details of drama performances/projects
• Certificates of courses/grades passed (such as LAMDA) or feedback/reviews received
• A short description of ‘Why drama is important to you’ (100-300 words Option A)
• A short review of a recent production the applicant has seen (100-200 words)

The recorded DVD/video must:

• Comprise one monologue of two minutes in length – fully acted out, staged and performed
• A short speech explaining ‘Why drama is important to you’ (Option B)

Please note that you do not need to do both option A and B.

Following a viewing of all portfolio and videos, applicants will be shortlisted. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an audition, presenting their monologue and will also carry out a short improvised piece of drama. Applicants should wear their costume (if required) and warm up before the audition. If interviewing virtually, then webcams should be well-positioned so that the performance can be viewed in full. Applicants will also meet the Head of Drama for an interview focusing on aspects of their portfolio.

Mary Ward scholars are expected to give support and show commitment to the whole school ethos, rooted in gospel values and expressed through the characteristics of a Mary Ward School, with particular regard to spirituality, religion, work for justice, charity, chaplaincy and community.

At present, our Mary Ward scholars assist with whole school liturgy (services) and assemblies, contribute to the decisions and activities of the school’s charity committee, represent the school at events in the Diocese of East Anglia and elsewhere, and are involved with working for justice and charity fundraising in local communities.

Recent initiatives include starting small student prayer or reflection groups, relaunching Fair Trade focus in school, marking Interfaith Week, and beginning to explore a student chaplaincy contribution from the senior students.

It should be noted that not all scholars are involved in all of these activities.

Applicants for all entry levels are required to submit a letter of application, and if shortlisted will be invited to meet with the Director of Christian Life and the Chaplain for a short interview.

The letter and interview give the shortlisted applicant the opportunity to explore how she might be able to support the whole school ethos. This could involve reflecting on relevant activities and experiences in which the applicant has been involved already – in ours school, in their previous school, in their parish or community – or the applicant might reflect on ways in which they feel they would be able to contribute in the future.

It is expected that Mary Ward scholars show a greater extent of leadership and initiative as they progress up the school; demonstrating willingness and potential to develop this is an important factor to consider for those applying at 13+ and 16+.

Year 7: Unlike all other awards, applications for this scholarship are not made until the students have joined Year 7, in order for candidates to have settled into the new routine of the academic year in the Senior School. 

The Music department at St Mary’s is vibrant and exciting with performance opportunities for all.

Our accomplished Music scholars are selected not only on their musical ability but also their ability to contribute to, and enhance, the musical life of our school. Self-motivation and leadership skills are essential as our scholars are expected to set high standards for other students.

General student requirements:

• A high standard of performance skills relative to age and year group
• Reliable, hard-working and enthusiastic with a sense of humour
• Team players who are prepared to contribute fully to the extra-curricular life of the school
• A willingness to contribute to the musical aspects of assemblies, religious occasions and concerts both formal and informal
• Good leadership qualities
• A commitment to continuing Music education within the curriculum from Year 9 upwards

Audition process - students should be prepared to:

• Perform two contrasting pieces (may be on different instruments/voice) to:
  • Grade 4 standard or above if applying for entry into Year 7 (applicants who play ‘rare breed’ instruments to a Grade 3 standard or above will be considered)
  • Grade 5 standard or above if applying for entry into Year 9 (applicants who play ‘rare breed’ instruments to a Grade 4 standard or above will be considered)
  • Grade 7 standard or above if applying for entry into the Sixth Form (applicants who play ‘rare breed’ instruments to a Grade 5 standard or above will be considered)
• Provide a summary of their musical experiences thus far and respond to questions about future musical aspirations at St Mary’s School, Cambridge. We would be particularly interested to hear from those students who have ideas for developing student leadership in Music
• Have an interview with the Director of Music

A Sport scholar should be: talented, committed, reliable, proactive and enthusiastic. A Sport scholar should have a high level of skill in more than one sport or be very good in a range of different sports.

They are expected to be dedicated to their sporting commitments both in and out of school and represent St Mary's School, Cambridge in at least two different sports. They are an ambassador for sport at the school.

A candidate is expected to produce a portfolio of their sporting achievements which could include:

• School, club and national pathway representation (e.g. County, Regional and National)
• Pictures of them taking part in their sports
• Examples of excellence, commitment and dedication
• Reasons why they wish to be a Sport scholar at St Mary's School, Cambridge
• Candidates should also provide a reference regarding their eligibility and suitability for the Sport scholarship
• Scholars are expected to demonstrate leadership skills, especially in Year 10 and Year 11, as well as encouraged to help out at lower school clubs

If applicants offer a specialist sport that is not assessed on the scholarship day (for 11+ Netball, Running and Gymnastics, for 13+ Hockey, Netball and Running), they are invited to submit video footage lasting approximately two minutes of them undertaking their specialist sport, which will form part of the scholarship assessment process.

If shortlisted, the applicants are invited to attend an interview with the Acting Head of Sport.

Textiles scholars are expected to demonstrate deeper interest and creativity in various areas of Textiles, both at home and school. They are also expected to contribute towards Textiles departmental events such as exhibitions and the annual fashion show.

Applicants are expected to submit a design portfolio together with some Textiles pieces of work that are made either at home or in clubs and workshops. Any assisted work will need to be clearly marked.