Year 1 - Private School Scholarship

[Eshaar]

My son is currently in Year 1, and we believe he shows strong ability in both Maths and English. We’re considering moving him to a private school to best support his education. Are there any scholarships available for children his age at private schools?

Scholarships are usually from secondary school age. But look at the schools you might be interested in and see if their website talks about bursaries. It is always worth calling them too.

https://www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk/uk-schools/advice/private-school-scholarships-and-bursaries-explained

Good luck

What you need to know about scholarships is that it is more about the kudos than the award. The maximum is usually 10% of the fees. It helps, but if you can’t afford the school then you will still be in trouble. There are bursaries but these are means tested. At this age the best you can do is support him by reading with him, developing his maths in every day life and introducing him to science, art and music and politics at a low level. Take him to museums and talk about what you see. Encourage him to read non-fiction. We had two very bright DC but we are also well aware that other children can catch up to a child who may seem very bright when young. Big fish in small ponds, and all that.

In our area Scholarships start at 7+ but are rare and only for academic ability. There are available at most schools from 11+ and also offered at 13+ and 16+ and can be in academics or music, performing arts, sport etc. The sports ones get the most interest.

They only offer a small % off the fees. The largest here is 25%, lowest 0% and 10-15% is typical.

If you want more you need to also apply for a bursary and that will take into account your ability to pay fees, wealthier schools offer the most bursaries.

We have a very academic child and have been offered scolarships and bursaries but as they haven't offered more than 50% we have opted to top up her state education at home and chosen a grammar school for senior.