Does your child love acting? Pupils can audition for a drama scholarship when applying to an independent school.  But are they worth the extra effort you and your child will need to put in? 

If you are applying to an independent school, and your child has a talent for drama, you may be considering applying for a drama scholarship on their behalf. In most cases, you'll pay less in fees, and drama scholars often enjoy a unique title and status, as well as a particular programme of activities, making their school experience extra rewarding.  

Is a scholarship the same as a bursary?

No. Bursaries are grants set up to assist families with the payment of annual school fees. They are awarded on a financial need basis, requiring a comprehensive examination of the family’s financial circumstances. 

Scholarships, on the other hand, are financial awards given to the most talented pupils in particular study areas. They recognise academic excellence or sporting or artistic talent.  

What are the benefits of a drama scholarship?

Scholarships vary from school to school (make sure you've clarified exactly what award is on offer when you apply), but in general, schools provide one or more of the following benefits: 

·       a modest reduction in the annual school fees

·       a programme of mentoring and special activities 

·       subsidised or fully funded LAMDA examination lessons

·       funded singing lessons

·       a grant to buy books

Drama scholarships are a public recognition of talent and ability. And because there are only one or two drama scholarships available in each year group, they are very prestigious. 

From day one, the head of the department will mentor the scholars and take a particular interest in fast-tracking their progress. Usually, a programme of special events will have been planned to enrich the scholars’ everyday school experience. These can range from talks, theatre trips and scholar performances, to special lunches or bespoke workshops. 

Not only does a scholarship programme enable your child to develop incredible specialist and personal social skills, but it will also be an impressive accomplishment on their CV.

When do I have to apply?

Scholarship deadlines will be different for each school, and you’ll need to make a separate scholarship application to each of your identified schools. Do this at the same time as completing the general school application form. Generally, all the information you need, including all deadlines, will be on the school’s website. Make sure you check each of your identified schools individually so you know when each audition day is.

Most schools charge an administration fee when you register your child for a scholarship. The registrar will notify you of the date and time of the audition and interview.   No matter how many pupils apply, schools usually audition everyone, although the more elite schools may shortlist. The selection process normally centres around an audition and an interview.

What is the audition process?

Usually, schools set aside a specific day for 11+, 13+ and 16+ scholarships auditions, so make sure you know these dates! 

Applicants may be asked to learn, and perform, either one or two speeches from published plays. You usually have a free choice, but sometimes the school may specify.  Double-check this detail. Applicants may also be required to attend an interactive workshop to assess their social and interactive skills. 

Theatre design candidates may be required to submit a portfolio of previous design achievements to talk through at the interview.

Finally, applicants have an interview with the head of the department and a panel of colleagues. They may be re-directed in their chosen speech to test their adaptability and receptiveness to direction. For example, the Director of Drama may concentrate on a small section of the speech by giving it a new focus. The applicant may have to perform it with a different emotion, or they may have to explore the stage space more fully, or even to have more regard for the punctuation in the speech and its impact on their performance. 

During the interview, applicants have the opportunity to convince the panel of their passion for the subject and what they could bring to the role of drama scholar.

In theory, this sounds simple. However, in practice, it is more complicated and can be pretty daunting for your child. Preparing for audition day thoroughly is a lengthy process. To give your child the best possible chance to succeed, you will need to plan several months ahead. Additionally, schools may continue to audition via Zoom, which also requires special preparation and planning.

What duties do scholars have to do?

Scholars are usually required to be an ambassador for the drama department. They are an essential communication link between the pupils of the school and the department. Academic and drama work must be a continuous priority. They must represent the best that the department (and school) can offer.

Scholarly duties can be wide-ranging and can include:

11+ Scholars

• speak in an assembly (as required)

• assist on Open Days

• participate in the school play

• attend Drama Club

• take LAMDA acting exams

• participate in House Drama

13+ Scholars

• speak in assembly

• opt to study GCSE Drama

• participate in the school production

• assist on Open Days

• take LAMDA acting exams

• participate in House Drama

• take Drama Club warm up

16+ Scholars

• opt to study A-Level Drama

• participate in the school production

• assist on Open Days

• take LAMDA acting exams

• lead production warm-ups

• direct House Drama plays

• lead Drama Club

As a former head of faculty at Ibstock Place School, my team of scholars supported the department’s work across the many annual school events. They became a team of skilled young people, passionate and knowledgeable about their subject with highly developed interpersonal skills.    

How do I know if my child is suitable?

Before you apply, make sure that you are realistic about your child’s ability. Take soundings about their talent level from your child's teachers and ask for an honest response.  

Would-be scholars must be confident, outstanding performers. They must demonstrate their current extra-curricular involvement - for example, regular participation in a school drama club, a Saturday morning drama group, or taking acting or speaking examinations (LAMDA, Trinity). They may have regularly appeared in school productions – or even professional ones. Applicants will have been to the theatre to see pantomimes, plays or musicals.

Remember, competition at our leading independent schools is notoriously fierce; only the most gifted and well-prepared will succeed. If you require further guidance, check out my scholarship coaching service by clicking on the button below. 

© Adrian Waller, A* Drama Tuition