It is possible for an award to be increased by the addition of a bursary, subject to the satisfactory completion of financial statement forms and acceptance by the Foundation Bursary Committee.
The awards are tenable for two years at Belmont and continue for five years at Mill Hill, our senior school, subject to satisfactory progress and behaviour. Any bursary addition would be reviewed annually.
Visiting the school during Open Days, is seen as an important part of the application procedure as it gives the candidates and their parents the opportunity to see the department in action, see where their Scholarship interview would take place, and helps the candidate feel at ease when they come for their formal assessment.
For entry at 11+ candidates will be expected to demonstrate both an ability in D&T and a passion for the subject. We appreciate, however, that this can be difficult to assess as no formal examinations have taken place due the varied and differing nature of the subject delivery in many of our feeder schools. The over-riding factor in whether a candidate receives an award will be whether they show an exceptional promise via evidence of prior work in addition to the assessment itself. If you are in any doubt about your child’s suitability for an award, please contact the Head of Design & Technology in advance.
Assessments and interviews for entry in September will take place during the Spring Term of that year; successful candidates will be required to perform at a sound academic level in the school’s entrance tests and interviews.
On the day of the interviews, all candidates will sit a practical assessment to demonstrate their confidence and ability in the workshop. During this time, the potential scholars will also be required to individually present to the Belmont and Mill Hill D&T staff, a project (ideally two) they have previously undertaken using wood, metal, or plastic. They should expect to be questioned on their project pieces in detail and candidates will be asked to answer general questions on their experience and knowledge of the subject.
Candidates entering for a Scholarship should be aware that if offered a D&T award, the subject will become a major part of their school life. Scholars are expected to take a full and active part in the design & technology life of the school, and will find themselves entered into competitions, contributing or involved in D&T clubs throughout the school week, in addition to their private outside interests.
Currently, the school has a general D&T club, a 3D Design & Print club, a Robotics club and the D&T Scholars’ group. There is also a thriving Young Enterprise club tasked with creating and putting together business ideas and resources for sale at Fun Days and other school events.
If you require any further information, or are unsure about any aspect of the application process or the suitability of your child for a DT award, please contact admissions@belmontschool.com.
