16+ Art Scholarships
Process | Expectations | Dates
Assessment Process
Candidates for 16+ Art Scholarships are invited to bring their portfolio to demonstrate their artistic interests and abilities. It is not expected that the work should be highly polished or finished; what is looked for is the power of observation, imagination and the ability to control and appreciate materials. Some design sense should be evident, as should originality.
A drawing activity of approximately 2 hours will be undertaken for the majority of the session. The group will be given a combination of observational and imaginative starting points, and will be asked to select their own media for the task. All creative and technical skills will be assessed, alongside confidence and visual understanding. Strong first hand drawing ability is at the root of this part of the Scholarship assessment.
Whilst the drawing activity is underway, each candidate will be given a 10-20 minute interview with the Head of Art, Claire Grover. A full portfolio review will be undertaken, with the student expected to speak fluently about their work, experience and knowledge of art. The interviews should be natural and unrehearsed, allowing personality and a genuine love of the subject to come through.
Expectation of Art Scholars
It is expected but not essential that candidates have studied Art at GCSE, although Art Scholars are required to study Art as one of their subjects at A Level and IB Diploma, and to make a substantial commitment to developing themselves as artists during their Sixth Form years. The Head of Art meets with Art Scholars regularly to support their development and ensure that the above expectations are being met.
The number of Scholarships awarded is at the discretion of the Head of College.
The artistic life of the College is vibrant and creative, incorporating painting, photography, drawing, print-making and textiles as well as sculpture and pottery. Students regularly graduate to Art colleges such as Central St Martins, Goldsmiths, the London College of Fashion and the Istituto Marangoni.