It is not possible to apply for an Academic Scholarship; instead, potential scholars will be identified based on their performance in the entrance assessments, and invited to attend an Academic Scholarship Interview. 

For this, the Head of Sixth Form will ask you to prepare an academic presentation on a specific topic, which you will then be present in person.

The academic interviews will take place on Monday 16 November 2026. 

Criteria

The Art department looks for young artists who demonstrate a passion for the subject through developing their own work, regularly visiting galleries and museums and through having a range of artistic skills, combined with a high level of creativity. Diploma Scholars will be expected to champion our subject to other years groups by creating and leading weekly clubs with the full support of the department, for a minimum two terms each academic year through the Sixth Form. 

Application and Supporting Evidence 

To apply for this scholarship, complete the relevant part of your Sixth Form application in the Applicaa portal, and ensure you add the required evidence:

1. A digital portfolio of between 5-10 pieces of work in a variety of mediums showing technical skill. Please ensure quality photographs, save the images in a single document (Word, PowerPoint or Pdf) and include the candidates name in the file name.  

2. Personal statement to include current involvement and aspirations in the Diploma Scholarship(s) selected and how they will contribute to the Scholarship Programme and the wider life of the College.   

Assessment Day: w/c 16 November 2026

The assessment will include drawing tests and an interview with the Head of Art. The interview will also focus on their portfolio of key pieces, the applicant’s future aspirations and what they hope to offer as a Diploma Scholar.   

Criteria

The Design Engineering Department is looking for the next generation of engineers, and students with a real passion and aptitude for design engineering. Students will be able to communicate a passion for understanding how things work and an aptitude for finding modern and practical ways to solve real world problems. They are expected to be subject champions across all year groups and key stages. They will be required to develop and deliver weekly clubs to students for a minimum two terms each academic year, for the duration of the Diploma. 

Application and Supporting Evidence 

To apply for this scholarship, complete the relevant part of your Sixth Form application in the Applicaa portal, and ensure you add the required evidence:

1. A digital portfolio of 5 pages demonstrating their current project work. Please ensure quality photographs, save the images in a single document (Word, PowerPoint or Pdf) and include the candidates name in the file name.  

2. Personal statement to include current involvement and aspirations in the Diploma Scholarship(s) selected and how they will contribute to the Scholarship Programme and the wider life of the College.   

Assessment Day: w/c 16 November 2026

Applicants are required to produce a 5-page portfolio demonstrating their current project work, to be presented to the Head of Design Engineering during an interview. The interview will also be an opportunity for each applicant to share their future aspirations, and what they might contribute as a Diploma Scholar. 

Criteria

Students should have been actively involved in productions throughout their time in education and be able to communicate a passion for the dramatic arts that extends beyond the classroom. There is no minimum requirement in terms of professional body or amateur group membership, but applicants should be able to demonstrate breadth of experience, whilst giving supporting examples of outstanding practice in their chosen field.  The field of study may include acting, dance, stage management, costume design, light and sound technician, production management, film or media studies. Drama Scholars will be expected to champion our subject, taking on ensemble leadership roles during productions across all three terms. They will also work alongside members of our department to share their passions with younger students by delivering clubs, for a minimum two terms each academic year.

Application and Supporting Evidence 

To apply for this scholarship, complete the relevant part of your Sixth Form application in the Applicaa portal, and ensure you add the required evidence:

1. At least one reference from a teacher of Drama or external director/club leader. Two references may be provided if you wish.  

2. Personal statement to include current involvement and aspirations in the Diploma Scholarship(s) selected and how they will contribute to the Scholarship Programme and the wider life of the College.   

Assessment Day: w/c 16 November 2026

Students who specialise in acting should be prepared to perform a two-minute monologue from a published play of their choice. Dancers should perform a two-minute piece in a style of their choice. Applicants with other specialisms are invited to deliver a five-minute presentation outlining their experience in their field of expertise, with ideas on how this could have an impact on the subject at St Dunstan’s. All applicants will also participate in a short question and answer session, with questions derived from their performances/ presentations.

Criteria

Applicants are expected to have made an outstanding contribution to music at their current school, as well as outside it (for example, through participation in an external choir or orchestra). Applications are welcomed from students who have taken music examinations (such as ABRSM), although this is not a requirement, as performance at audition will be the primary determining factor. 

Applicants should normally be performing at a standard equivalent to at least Grade 7 on their main instrument, although the required level may vary depending on the instrument(s).  

Students who receive an award, will be expected to act as leading practitioners of music within the school, playing an important role in ensembles and musical activities, and offering guidance and encouragement to students in lower year groups. 

Diploma Scholars will be expected to participate in at least two weekly ensembles, perform with these groups in relevant concerts, and present solo performances in concerts specifically for scholars throughout the year.  

Application and Supporting Evidence 

To apply for this scholarship, complete the relevant part of your Sixth Form application in the Applicaa portal, and ensure you add the required evidence:

Each candidate will need to submit the following: 

1. At least one reference from their school or external music teacher. Two references may be provided if you wish.  

2. Personal statement to include their current involvement and aspirations in the Diploma Scholarship(s) selected and how they will contribute to the Scholarship Programme and the wider life of the College.   

Assessment Day: w/c 16 November 2026

Applicants should perform two contrasting pieces on their main instrument, or one piece on each instrument if presenting in more than one. They will also complete sight-reading and aural activities.  

All potential Diploma Scholars will take part in a short interview with the Director of Music and Head of Instrumental Studies. 

The Director of Music is always happy to offer prospective Scholars further information about the music department and the Music Scholarship Programme.  Please email mdowd@stdunstans.org.uk 

Criteria

Candidates should be able to evidence a track record of outstanding commitment and performance in their current settings. We would expect applicants to be competing at county level or equivalent, depending on the sport they currently participate in. In addition to demonstrating full commitment to our competitive programmes across the Sixth Form, Sport Scholars will be expected to inspire the next generation of athletes by leading weekly clubs with the full support of the department, for a minimum of two terms each academic year. 

Whilst we are able to take applications from athletes across all disciplines, we offer elevated packages for applicants competing in our Core Sports; football, hockey, swimming and netball.  

Application and Supporting Evidence 

To apply for this scholarship, complete the relevant part of your Sixth Form application in the Applicaa portal, and ensure you add the required evidence:

1. At least one reference from your Sport teacher or external coach. Two references may be provided if you wish.  

2. Personal statement to include current involvement and aspirations in your chosen sport, and how you will contribute to the Scholarship Programme and the wider life of the College.   

Assessment Day: w/c 16 November 2026

Applicants will be invited to join us and our existing students to participate in an afternoon of sport. Sessions will include fitness and technical assessment along with an observed competitive performance. We will also contact those applying for scholarships in our Core Sports directly, with a view to seeing them compete in their current setting. All applicants will also have a short interview with the Director of Sport, focusing on current participation and future aspirations.