Current Information 24 25 web pdf
An opportunity to achieve distinction and personal excellence through the scholarships programme.
Blundell’s aims to nurture academic performance through the encouragement of scholarship and scholarly example. There is a wide cross-section of awards aimed at developing balance, breadth, and will to lead from the front by maintaining the highest standards.
The Scholarships and Awards are competed for at 11+, 13+ and 16+. There are also a small number of discretionary Head’s Awards.
Blundell’s is fortunate to be able to continue to fulfil the wishes of Peter Blundell, its founder, by offering Foundation Bursaries to successful scholarship applicants who may need more financial support. These applications will require an online bursary application form to be submitted prior to the scholarship process, which will be made available on application.
Application forms for entry to the 2025 Scholarship Programme are available via the links below or email the Admissions Coordinator on admissions@blundells.org. It is recommended that you read carefully the additional information provided on each Scholarship in the relevant sections below before making an application.
11+ ENTRANCE AND AWARDS
Please use the link above if you would like to apply for a place in Year 7 2025 via our Standard Entrance route or via the Scholarship route.
11+ Entrance & Awards Assessments
Saturday 18th January 2025 ( Closing date Friday 10th January 2025 )
11+ Music Awards
Monday 20th January 2025 (Closing date Friday 10th January 2025)
ACADEMIC ENTRANCE AND JUNIOR AWARDS
Applicants new to Blundell’s (i.e. not joining through our Prep School) may choose one of two entrance routes for their child.
1. Entrance Test
2. Junior Awards - Academic
A small number of Junior Awards will be offered to those who excel in the papers and may result in a concession of up to 20% off our Junior Tuition fees. These are valid for Years 7 and 8 and pupil performance is reviewed annually. All pupils may then compete for the13+ Scholarships, which can give up to 30% concession.
Both sets of papers are sat on the same day, at Blundell’s.
Results will be used to help us identify any learning support needs, knowledge gaps and for class setting on arrival.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
The 11+ Music Junior Awards will entail an audition and interview with the Director of Music. Candidates should be able to offer one or two instruments or voice. As a guide, Grade 3+ would be advised and if presenting one instrument it would be expected to be more advanced.
11+ Music Junior Awards will automatically become 13+ Music Scholarships, subject to annual review and continued commitment to music at Blundell’s.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
13+ ENTRANCE AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Apply Here
Please use the link above if you would like to apply for a place in Year 9 2025 via our Standard Entrance route or via our Scholarship route.
13+ Sport Scholarships
Monday 7th October 2024 (Closing date Monday 30th September 2024)
13+ Academic Scholarships
Tue 28th Jan’ – Wed 29th Jan’ 2025 (Closing date Wednesday 11th December 2024)
13+ Music & DT Scholarships
Thursday 30th January 2025 (Closing date Wednesday 11th December 2024)
13+ Art & Drama Scholarships
Monday 27th January 2025 (Closing date Wednesday 11th December 2024)
SPORT AT BLUNDELL’S
Sport and exercise are integral to everyone’s life at Blundell’s. The School has an excellent reputation not only for it’s sporting prowess but also for the spirit in which it is played. Over the past five years more than a hundred Blundellians have competed at County level or above. Blundell’s teams compete on the strongest circuit in the South West with regular fixtures against Bryanston, Clifton, Millfield and Sherborne for example. Coaching standards are extremely high across all sports.
Sports Awards are considered for expertise in any sport, but greater consideration is given to rugby, cricket, hockey, tennis, netball and athletics.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
Candidates will be assessed on their overall performance on the selection day in addition to their sporting CV and references. The selection process is an arduous one, which will test the candidates’ suitability for a sport scholarship. This will include testing the fitness components of speed, agility, and endurance. Candidates will also be assessed in small-sided ball games e.g. football, basketball, hockey, netball and tag rugby. Candidates will then demonstrate to the selectors their ability in their major sport(s).
External candidates will be interviewed by our Head. Internal and External candidates will discuss their sporting achievements to date with a senior member of our sports department or a member of the selection panel. External candidates who are not entered for the academic scholarships must also satisfy the entry requirements by sitting the Blundell’s Entry Test (Mathematics and English).
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
Sports Scholarships are offered for excellence in sport. Scholarship awards will be made to those who will make an active contribution to the sporting life of the School. They will be expected to be dedicated to, and to provide leadership in their sport(s). They will have regular Sports Award holders’ meetings, strength and conditioning sessions and appraisals, as well as exposure to sports professionals from outside the school. They will have achieved, or be of a standard to achieve, representative honours at County, Regional or National level. It is anticipated that they will be a role model to younger pupils both on and off the “field”.
VALUE OF SCHOLARSHIPS
The value of these awards is up to 30% of the chosen entry designation.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
INTRODUCTION
Blundell’s is a school with a very strong record of academic success. We believe that educational excellence also needs to embrace moral, spiritual and cultural development, a quality here which the recent school inspection report rated as “outstanding”. Blundell’s is committed to encouraging and nurturing a genuine love of study and scholarship. The curriculum framework is complemented by a vibrant enrichment programme of lectures, seminars, conferences, academic societies, international exchanges, national competitions, and masterclasses. Academic scholars who attend Blundell’s will leave with excellent examination results, a deep love of learning for its own sake, a powerful curiosity about the world, a sense of ambition and the very best chance of successfully following their chosen career path.
ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP CATEGORIES
Academic Scholarships
These are awarded to candidates who display an all-round high level of academic prowess across the disciplines. The value of these awards is up to 30% of the chosen designation.
The A.V. Hill Academic Scholarship
Hill attended Blundell’s in the late 1800s and went on to have a very distinguished career in physiology and operations research. He is regarded as one of the founders of biophysics and went on to win a Nobel Prize in 1922 for his work on mechanical work in muscles.
The A.V. Hill award is made to an individual who is outstanding in any of the scientific disciplines. The value of this award is up to 30% of the chosen entry designation.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
Candidates will be selected based on their results in a series of examinations. External candidates will be interviewed by the Head. Internal candidates will be interviewed by Senior Academic Staff. Examinations will be in the following subjects:
Candidates will be expected to attend the full school day at Blundell’s on both selection days; they will not be required to board, although we would encourage those considering boarding to do so.
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
Successful candidates will be those who score highly overall, although this does not necessarily have to be the case in every subject. Candidates may be considered if they show an exceptional ability in a particular subject area. The interview is an extremely important part of the selection procedure and candidates are expected to possess good general knowledge, an appreciation and understanding of current affairs and a high level of intellectual curiosity. Blundell’s is looking for individuals with energy, an enthusiasm for learning, and the drive to be an example to others in the school.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
MUSIC AT BLUNDELL’S
Music plays an integral part of life at Blundell’s. With over 30 rehearsals a week, and more than 300 individual lessons, the musical progression and involvement of your child will be guaranteed. Blundell’s provides musical excellence and ambition for our musicians that will foster their love of music and enable them to progress and achieve their musical goals, be that music college, as a choral scholar, or simply a life full of musical appreciation and enjoyment.
Every opportunity is taken to ensure that our music scholars thrive in a dynamic department committed to creativity, where fun and enjoyment and enthusiasm are coupled with musical excellence. This is not limited to the walls of Blundell’s – scholars regularly perform in the world’s finest venues (e.g. Westminster Abbey 2024, St Mark’s Basilica, Venice 2024, St John Smith’s Square, London, 2022; Carnegie Hall New York, 2019).
CHORAL MUSIC
Blundell’s has an excellent and varied choral provision, with seven choirs having weekly rehearsals and singing in a range of styles. As well as a full choir of over 60 pupils, a Chamber Choir and the small Blundell’s Cantorum Choir, there are boys’ and girls’ close harmony groups singing popular songs and barbershop.
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
Our Senior Orchestra plays repertoire that eclipses most school orchestras. Recently this has included: Appalachian Spring (Copland), Peter and the Wolf (Prokofiev), Carnival of the Animals (Saint-Saens), Symphony No. 9 (Dvorak) and many other wonderful pieces.
Chamber music has great importance - finalists of the Pro-Corda National Chamber Music Competition in 2024 and semi finalists three times in recent years, our high-level groups range from trios, quartets and octets for string and wind players. There are dedicated ensembles for every instrument, be that flute group, clarinet group, trumpet group, and so on. There are also ensembles for jazz and popular music, including the exceptional Big Band, folk groups, our very popular Rock Academy and percussion and drum ensembles.
Summer 2022 saw an exciting refurbishment to the Music Department that delivers a state-of-the-art addition to our studio and technology suites and provision for rehearsals and concerts. It is certainly an exciting time to be joining the music community at Blundell’s.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
Selection is based on the performance(s) on the scholarship day and their interview with the Director of Music. External candidates will also be interviewed by our Head. Please provide a copy of the music score for our accompanist at least two weeks before the exam.
Candidates may offer two or more instruments (including voice), although only one may be offered if at a higher level.
It is hoped that the standard of pieces and technical requirements will be to at least Grade 5, however, Blundell’s is primarily looking for musical potential.
External candidates who are not entered for the academic scholarships must also satisfy the entry requirements by sitting the Blundell’s Entry Test (Mathematics and English).
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
Music Scholars are expected to make a valuable contribution to the musical life of the School; they will be passionate musicians committed to being involved in musical events as soloists and in the appropriate choral and instrumental ensembles. As well as the dedicated scholars’ programme of concerts and masterclasses, Music Scholars take a leading role in our Music in the Community programme, working alongside the London Chamber Orchestra. Music theory lessons are available to all. Training and audition preparation is provided for Music Scholars who wish to progress as Oxbridge Choral Scholars or to a Conservatoire, including mentoring in the directing of ensembles.
VALUE OF AWARDS
The value of these awards is up to 30% of the chosen entry designation and may include free tuition on two instruments.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY AT BLUNDELL’S
At Blundell’s we are fortunate to have a thriving Design and Technology (D&T) department with outstanding facilities and opportunities for our pupils. The recently refurbished and fully equipped workshops also boast a range of CNC machines including 3D printers, a laser cutter, plasma cutter, cricut, plotter cutters and a CNC router. As a result pupils can design and make projects that are above and beyond the national expectation and we see exciting practical pieces leaving the department on a regular basis.
In Years 7-9, pupils are put through a range of projects from designing the branding and promotional merchandise for a festival to the production of a Bluetooth amplifier. By the end of Year 9, pupils will have undergone a whole range of design and production projects taught in a way that broadens and develops their skill sets. At this point, pupils will be fully prepared for GCSE study in Graphic Products or Resistant Materials. At A-level we offer a popular Product Design course which encourages pupils to work within their areas of interest be it engineering, architecture, fashion and many others.
Pupils who have undergone GCSE and A-level courses within the D&T department have gone on to study in a range of different disciplines. Recently these include; Architecture at UCL, Product Design at Loughborough and Mechanical and Aeronautical engineering with the Royal Navy to name but a few.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
We are delighted to offer a scholarship to those who show true talent in the areas of design, manufacture and problem solving. Applicants are expected to take the subject for GCSE. The selection consists of the following stages:
1. Submission of a concise portfolio of work
Maximum 2 A3 pages submitted online in PDF format
2. Invitation to sit a short assessment focusing on design and problem-solving ability
Assessment to last 45 minutes consisting of a design task to explore, rationalise and suggest a solution to a design problem
3. Interview with a member of D&T staff.
Successful applicants will be interviewed by a member of teaching staff from the D&T department
4. External candidates will also be interviewed by our Head.
Portfolio submission, further information
The portfolio should be just two A3 pages, submitted as a PDF by Monday 20th January 2025.
A brief explanation of where the passion for D & T comes from and key areas of interest
Images / scans of any design drawings or work (hand and/or computer drawings)
Photographs of models and prototypes (this could be anything from an impressive piece of lego construction through to a pizza oven made over the summer break). There are no strict criteria, as long as the projects chosen are relevant to the subject and show good skill levels and ability.
As well as Resistant Materials and Product Design, Graphic Design is a big part of what we offer in D&T at Blundell’s. Therefore, if the work presented does not include models and prototypes but focuses more on design drawings, sketches, CAD work and modelling with compliant materials, the application will be just as welcome.
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
The successful candidate(s) will have demonstrated a high level of interest, determination and skill in the areas of designing and making, preferably through using a range of different media. They will be expected to continue studying the subject until GCSE level.
VALUE OF SCHOLARSHIPS
The value of these awards is up to 30% of the chosen entry designation.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
ART AT BLUNDELL’S
Blundell’s Art School is enormously successful. Partly housed in Ondaatje Hall and the Popham Centre, the facilities are purpose-built, spacious and light, creating a wonderful environment in which our pupils can thrive and flourish. The studios are well equipped for painting, photography (darkroom and digital), printmaking, research (a well-stocked art library and dedicated ICT suite), sculpture and ceramics, thus allowing the pupils to experiment in a wide range of media. Pupils’ work is regularly entered for local and national competitions.
Beyond the campus the Blundell’s Art School organises regular trips to the London, Bristol and Exeter galleries as well as further afield to New York, Prague, Amsterdam and Madrid. There is a strong emphasis on working with local artists through workshops, lectures, joint exhibitions and visits to their studios. Royal Academy artists visit each year and lead an excellent day-long life drawing workshop at the school. Pupils move on to Art Colleges such as Falmouth, UAL, Edinburgh, Bournemouth, Wimbledon and Chelsea, which is powerful evidence that studying Art at Blundell’s will support and stretch the best and give a strong foundation to an individual’s art practice.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
All candidates should submit their portfolio of recent work (maximum of 5 pieces in any media) as pdfs using Microsoft Lens and external candidates should include a letter of support/reference from their current Art teacher by Monday 20th January 2025. Please do not include artwork produced with the aid of an external tutor.
Assessment will be made by interview, their portfolio and a 1 hour observational drawing test. Candidates are expected to be able to talk lucidly about their own work and their involvement in the subject outside of school lessons. External candidates who are not entered for the academic scholarships must also satisfy the entry requirements the Blundell’s Entry Test (Mathematics and English).
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
The successful candidate will have demonstrated a pro-active, skilled and independent approach to the subject beyond the projects set in the classroom. A fertile imagination and natural curiosity must be supported by an obvious passion for art. Strong drawing skills are essential as is the ability to experiment with media in innovative and interesting ways. Awareness and an appreciation of work of other artists will also be expected.
An art scholar will not only set an example of excellent practice but also initiate and lead art-related events, such as inviting a speaker or arranging an exhibition or workshop. It is a requirement that art scholars will continue to study the subject to GCSE level as a minimum, and if Art is not studied as an examination subject in the 6th Form, scholars would be expected to offer a significant presence in the Art department in extra-curricular time.
VALUE OF SCHOLARSHIPS
The value of these awards is up to 30% of the chosen entry designation.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
DRAMA AT BLUNDELL’S
The Ondaatje Hall, a purpose built theatre, provides the home for the very popular drama department. Pupils study drama as part of the whole school curriculum and they are provided with a rich and diverse experience of the historical, cultural and practical aspects of drama. Drama classes are taught in the specially equipped teaching spaces by staff, who are either subject specialists in their own right, or who have undertaken additional training in the teaching of drama.
Students are taught the skills involved in different aspects of drama. The art of the playwright, director, designer, technician and critic is as much part of the student’s experience as the art of the actor. Every possible opportunity to invite professionals into the school is taken and every student is given the opportunity to make at least one visit to a theatre at each stage of the curriculum. There are at least two major school productions per year, one for the lower school and one for the upper school and there are many other opportunities to take part in performance work
The aim of the department is for pupils to enjoy engaging critically and practically with a range of drama at a high level and to produce excellent performance work in which the whole school may share.
Many past pupils have carried on to study Drama at University and acting at many of the major drama schools including RADA, Central, The Lir Academy, Guildhall, Bristol Old Vic and East 15.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
Assessment is made by interview and observation of practical performance skills. Candidates should prepare in advance, a short monologue of no more than two minutes. They will be seen individually for a further 5-10 minutes. Finally, candidates will be interviewed by the Head of Drama and will also be interviewed by our Head.
External candidates who are not entered for the academic scholarships must also satisfy the entry requirements by sitting the Blundell’s Entry Test (Mathematics and English).
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
The successful candidate(s) will have demonstrated the skilful use of body and voice to characterise a role or roles and the ability to work creatively with others. They should demonstrate genuine interest in the subject and the determination to succeed, and they will be expected to get involved in school productions and study the subject until GCSE level.
VALUE OF SCHOLARSHIPS
The value of these awards is up to 30% of the chosen entry designation.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
16+ ENTRANCE AND SCHOLARSHIP
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS FOR 2025 ARE NOW CLOSED. Please use the link above to apply for a place in Year 12 2025 via our Standard Entrance Route. If you have missed the scholarship window and would like to discuss what other entry routes are available please contact our Admissions Coordinator Mrs Andrea Gray on a.gray@blundells.org
16+ Music Scholarships
Thursday 7th November 2024 (Closing date Monday 21st October 2024)
16+ Sport Scholarships
Monday 11th November 2024 (Closing date Monday 21st October 2024)
16+ Academic, Art, Drama & STEM Scholarships
Tuesday 12th November 2024 (Closing date Monday 21st October 2024)
MUSIC AT BLUNDELL'S
Music plays an integral part of life at Blundell’s. With over 30 rehearsals a week, and more than 300 individual lessons, the musical progression and involvement of your child will be guaranteed. Blundell’s provides musical excellence and ambition for our musicians that will foster their love of music and enable them to progress and achieve their musical goals, be that music college, as a choral scholar, or simply a life full of musical appreciation and enjoyment.
Every opportunity is taken to ensure that our music award holders thrive in a dynamic department committed to creativity, where fun and enjoyment and enthusiasm are coupled with musical excellence. This is not limited to the walls of Blundell’s – scholars regularly perform in the world’s finest venues (e.g. Westminster Abbey 2024, St Mark’s Basilica, Venice 2024, St John Smith’s Square, London, 2022; Carnegie Hall New York, 2019).
CHORAL MUSIC
Blundell’s has an excellent and varied choral provision, with seven choirs having weekly rehearsals and singing in a range of styles. As well as a full choir of over 60 pupils, a Chamber Choir and the small Blundell’s Cantorum Choir, there are boys’ and girls’ close harmony groups singing popular songs and barbershop.
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
Our Senior Orchestra plays repertoire that eclipses most school orchestras. Recently this has included: Appalachian Spring (Copland), Peter and the Wolf (Prokofiev), Carnival of the Animals (Saint-Saens), Symphony No. 9 (Dvorak) and many other wonderful pieces.
Chamber music has great importance - finalists of the Pro-Corda National Chamber Music Competition in 2024 and semi-finalists three times in recent years, our high-level groups range from trios, quartets and octets for string and wind players. There are dedicated ensembles for every instrument, be that flute group, clarinet group, trumpet group, and so on. There are also ensembles for jazz and popular music, including the exceptional Big Band, folk groups, our very popular Rock Academy and percussion and drum ensembles.
Summer 2022 saw an exciting refurbishment to the Music Department that delivers a state-of-the-art addition to our studio and technology suites and provision for rehearsals and concerts. It is certainly an exciting time to be joining the music community at Blundell’s.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
Candidates may offer two or more instruments and will be asked to play/sing two contrasting pieces of their own choice. In exceptional circumstances, one instrument may be offered. Candidates should also expect a short interview with the Director of Music which may include some sight-reading and aural tests.
They should bring their musical instruments and music on the day of the assessment. Accompaniments must be sent to the school at least two weeks before the audition. External candidates will also be interviewed by the Head.
Candidates will be expected to satisfy the normal Sixth Form entry requirements of a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 6 or above and grade 7 in any subjects intended to be studied at A Level.
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
Music awards are offered to candidates who excel practically and show promise and passion. Candidates may offer as many instruments as they wish, and offering two or more (including voice) is encouraged, although by no means essential. It is expected that the standard of pieces and technical requirements will be to at least Grade 7 according to the Associated Board, however, Blundell’s is primarily looking for musical potential. We are looking for pupils who have a real passion for music coupled with an impressive talent; they will be committed to being involved in musical events in the School which may involve occasional services on Sundays. Our music award holders take a leading role in many areas and have the opportunity of rehearsing or leading groups. We strongly encourage them to contribute ideas to be pursued and developed in the department. Music Scholars are expected to make a valuable contribution to the musical life of the School.
VALUE OF AWARDS
Most successful scholars are awarded a 10%-15% fee reduction with a small number of exceptional candidates reaching the maximum 30% award. Music scholars may also be offered free music tuition in up to two instruments. Exhibitioners may be offered free music tuition in one instrument.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
SPORT AT BLUNDELL’S
Blundell’s has an excellent reputation for sport. Over the past five years more than a hundred Blundellians have competed at County level or above. Blundell’s teams compete on the strongest of fixture circuits in the region and enter a number of National competitions achieving some magnificent results. Coaching standards are extremely high across all sports. Sport Awards are considered for expertise in any sport, but greater consideration is given to the major sports of rugby, cricket, hockey, netball, athletics and tennis.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
Candidates will be assessed on their overall performance on the selection day in addition to their sporting CV and references. The selection process is an arduous one, which will test the candidates’ suitability for a sport award. Candidates will demonstrate to the selectors their ability in their main sport(s) in a coaching and trial session with other candidates and Blundell’s pupils. This will include testing the fitness components of speed, agility, and endurance. Candidates will also be assessed in small-sided ball games e.g. football, basketball, handball. Candidates will be watched throughout the day to view their coachability and attitude. All candidates will discuss their sporting achievements to date with one of the selectors on the scholarship panel.
Candidates will also be interviewed by the Head and will be expected to satisfy the normal Sixth Form entry requirements of a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 6 or above and grade 7 in any subjects intended to be studied at A Level.
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
Sports Awards are offered for excellence in sport. Awards will be made to those who will make an active contribution to the sporting life of the School. They will be expected to be dedicated to, and to provide leadership in their sport(s). They will have regular Sports Award holders’ meetings, strength and conditioning sessions and appraisals, as well as exposure to sports professionals from outside the school. They will have achieved, or be of a standard to achieve, representative honours at County, Regional or National level. It is anticipated that they will be a role model to younger pupils both on and off the “field”.
VALUE OF AWARDS
Most successful scholars are awarded a 10%-15% fee reduction with a small number of exceptional candidates reaching the maximum 30% award.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
INTRODUCTION
Blundell’s is a school with a very strong record of academic success. The curriculum framework is complemented by a vibrant enrichment programme of lectures, seminars, conferences, academic societies, international exchanges, national competitions and masterclasses. Academic scholars who attend Blundell’s will leave with excellent examination results, a deep love of learning for its own sake, a powerful curiosity about the world, a sense of ambition and the very best chance of successfully following their chosen career path.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
Academic scholarship candidates will be selected based on their results in a series of examinations. External candidates will be interviewed by the Head. Internal candidates will be interviewed by Senior Academic Staff.
The scholarship assessment will consist of the following:
• Cognitive Ability Test – 1 hour
• General Paper – 50 minutes
• Specialist Paper– 50 minutes
• Interview – 10 minutes
• Interview (Specialist Subject) – 15 minutes
All candidates sit the cognitive ability test as part of the scholarship process. In addition, academic scholarship applicants sit a General Paper consisting of two sections to assess a candidate’s capability in English and Mathematics. Candidates are expected to achieve at least GCSE grade 6 equivalent in this paper. Candidates also declare a specialist subject of their choice from the following subjects: Mathematics, English, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, History, Geography, Religious Studies, French, German, Spanish, Latin. This should be a subject they intend to study at A Level. Candidates will be interviewed in their chosen Specialist Subject by the relevant Head of Department.
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
Successful candidates will be those who score highly overall, although some variation in the different elements is to be expected. Blundell’s is looking for individuals with energy, an enthusiasm for learning, and the drive to be an example to others in the school.
Candidates will also be interviewed by the Head and will be expected to satisfy the normal Sixth Form entry requirements of a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 6 or above and grade 7 in any subjects intended to be studied at A Level.
VALUE OF AWARDS
Academic Scholarships are awarded to candidates who display an all-round high level of academic prowess across the disciplines. Most successful scholars are awarded a 10%-15% fee reduction with a small number of exceptional candidates reaching the maximum 30% award.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
ART AT BLUNDELL’S
The Art Department is enormously successful at Blundell’s. The facilities are purpose-built, spacious and light, creating a wonderful environment in which our pupils can thrive and flourish. The studios are well equipped for painting, photography (darkroom and digital), printmaking, research (a well-stocked Art library and dedicated ICT suite), sculpture, glass and ceramics, thus allowing the pupils to experiment in a wide range of media. Pupils’ work is regularly entered for local and national competitions. Beyond the campus the Art department organises regular trips to the London galleries as well as further afield to Paris, Rome and Naples. There is a strong emphasis on working with local artists through workshops, lectures, joint exhibitions and visits to their studios. Royal Academy artists visit each year and lead an excellent day-long Senior Art life drawing workshop at the school in addition to dedicated life drawing lessons in class. Pupils move on to Art Colleges such as Falmouth, Manchester, Leeds and Central St Martins, which is powerful evidence that studying Art at Blundell’s will support and stretch the best and give a strong foundation to an individual’s art practice.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
All candidates should submit their portfolio of recent work (maximum of 5 pieces in any media) as pdfs using Microsoft Lens and external candidates should include a letter of support/reference from their current Art teacher by 1st November 2024. Please do not include artwork produced with the aid of an external tutor. Assessment will be made by interview, their portfolio and a 1 hour observational drawing test. Candidates are expected to be able to talk lucidly about their own work and their involvement in the subject outside of school lessons. External candidates who are not entered for the academic scholarships must also satisfy the entry requirements by sitting the Blundell’s Entry Test (Mathematics and English).
External candidates will also be interviewed by the Head and will be expected to satisfy the normal Sixth Form entry requirements of a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 6 or above and grade 7 in any subjects intended to be studied at A Level.
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
The successful candidate(s) will have demonstrated a proactive, skilled and independent approach to the subject beyond the projects set in the classroom. A fertile imagination and natural curiosity must be supported by an obvious passion for Art. Strong drawing skills are essential as is the ability to experiment with media in innovative and interesting ways. Awareness and an appreciation of work of other artists will also be expected. An art scholar will not only set an example of excellent practice but also initiate and lead art-related events, such as visiting speakers, exhibitions or workshops. It is a requirement that art scholars will continue to study the subject at A Level and offer a significant presence in the Art department in extracurricular time. Senior Scholars enter the Trinity Gold Award in the Arts which is completed independently in the Activities programme, and can attract 16 UCAS points towards University entrance. The Level 3 Award fosters leadership skills, collaboration and research into the Creative Arts and develops transferable skills highly valued by tertiary institutions.
VALUE OF AWARDS
Most successful scholars are awarded a 10%-15% fee reduction with a small number of exceptional candidates reaching the maximum 30% award.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
DRAMA AT BLUNDELL’S
The Ondaatje Hall, a purpose built theatre, provides the home for the very popular drama department. Pupils study drama as part of the whole school curriculum and they are provided with a rich and diverse experience of the historical, cultural and practical aspects of drama. Drama classes are taught in the specially equipped teaching spaces by staff, who are either subject specialists in their own right, or who have undertaken additional training in the teaching of drama. Students are taught the skills involved in different aspects of drama. The art of the playwright, director, designer, technician and critic is as much part of the students’ experience as the art of the actor. Every possible opportunity to invite professionals into the school is taken and every student is given the opportunity to make at least one visit to a theatre at each stage of the curriculum. There are at least two major school productions per year, one for the lower school and one for the upper school and there are many other opportunities to take part in performance work.
The aim of the department is for pupils to enjoy engaging critically and practically with a range of drama at a high level and to produce excellent performance work in which the whole school may share. Many past pupils have carried on to take Drama at University and to study acting at many of the major drama schools including RADA, Central, The Lir Academy, Guildhall, Bristol Old Vic and East 15.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
Assessment is made by interview and observation of practical performance skills. Candidates should prepare in advance, a short monologue from a published play of no more than two minutes which they will perform to the Head of Drama and the Artistic Director. Candidates will also be directed to perform this monologue in a different style. Candidates will be interviewed by the Head of Drama and the Artistic Director and will also be interviewed by the Head.
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
The successful candidate(s) will have demonstrated the skilful use of body and voice to characterise a role or roles and the ability to take direction. They should demonstrate genuine interest in the subject and the determination to succeed. They will be expected to help the Department with all school productions and to take A Level Drama and Theatre.
Candidates will be expected to satisfy the normal Sixth Form entry requirements of a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 6 or above and grade 7 in any subjects intended to be studied at A Level.
VALUE OF AWARDS
Most successful scholars are awarded a 10%-15% fee reduction with a small number of exceptional candidates reaching the maximum 30% award.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
STEM AT BLUNDELL’S
At Blundell’s we are fortunate to have a thriving Design and Technology (D&T) department with outstanding facilities and opportunities for our pupils. The recently refurbished fully equipped workshops have all the traditional tools and machinery you would expect. Alongside these, we have a range of CNC machines including 3D printers, laser/plasma/cricut/plotter cutters and a CNC router. Pupils can design and make projects that are above and beyond the national expectation. Pupils are encouraged to use a range of design media from hand drawing and modelling to use of Solid Works, our main CAD package. Our A-level course is split evenly between examinations and Non-Examined Assessment (NEA). Therefore, having a good theoretical knowledge and appreciation of the subject content is just as important as problem solving and practical abilities around the design and production process.
The STEM scholarship aims to engage talented and ambitious pupils in A-level subjects such as D&T, Maths, Physics and Chemistry, who wish to enter the world of industrial design, engineering and architecture. We offer a popular Product Design A-level and recent pupils have gone on to Architecture at Edinburgh and UCL, Product Design at Loughborough and Mechanical and Aeronautical engineering with the Royal Navy.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
We are delighted to offer a scholarship to those who show true talent in the areas of design, manufacture and problem solving. Applicants must take Product Design at A-level alongside a minimum of one other STEM subject (Maths, Physics or Chemistry).
Formal Assessments:
Interview with a member of D&T staff. (Please bring a portfolio of work with you as this will form a key part of the interview discussion).
Candidates will also be interviewed by the Head.
Portfolio submission, further information
It is the expectation that pupils who apply for this STEM scholarship actively engage in STEM activities both at school and in their free time. Therefore, the portfolio that pupils bring with them should represent projects and pieces of work that demonstrate this engagement.
We would encourage pupils who are taking D&T at GCSE to bring in their coursework portfolios with them. Other work can be presented in the form of drawings, both hand and CAD, as well as photographs of models and practical pieces.
The format of the portfolio is completely up to the candidate, however, a concise portfolio that shows off the best of the pupil’s work would be preferable.
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES
The successful candidate(s) will have demonstrated a high level of skill in the areas of designing and making, as well as in a Maths assessment. They should have a clear passion for a range of STEM subjects and a strong problem-solving ability. Successful candidates will be personable, dedicated, with strong ability in relevant skill areas.
External candidates will also be interviewed by the Head and will be expected to satisfy the normal Sixth Form entry requirements of a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 6 or above and grade 7 in any subjects intended to be studied at A Level.
VALUE OF AWARDS
The value of these awards is up to 10% of the chosen entry designation.
PETER BLUNDELL FOUNDATION BURSARIES
We are fortunate to be able to offer means tested Foundation Bursaries to successful Scholarship applicants, whose parents need financial assistance to send their son or daughter to Blundell’s. With these bursaries, the Governors wish to reflect the spirit of Peter Blundell’s vision. Candidates should where possible arrange to visit the school before competing for a Scholarship and will be asked to complete an online Bursary Application Form prior to the Scholarship closing date.
For any additional information please contact the Admissions Co-ordinator on:
Tel: 01884 232310
We offer the following awards:
Awards are made at the following stages in a child’s education:
As an HMC School the maximum value of any award is 30% of fees, with the exception of the means tested Foundation Bursaries. There are three levels of awards:
Music Scholars may also receive their instrumental tuition free of charge (maximum of two named instruments).
The School is fortunate to be able to offer these to successful scholarship applicants whose parents need financial assistance for their son or daughter and who, in the opinion of the Head, would derive great benefit from an education at Blundell’s. Parents and candidates must arrange to visit the School before competing for a Scholarship and complete an online bursary application form prior to the examination closing date.
A Services Boarding Package is available; please contact the Admissions Coordinator on admissions@blundells.org
Candidates who win an Academic Award at 11+ must sit for one again at 13+ to keep their Award into the Senior School. Candidates who are awarded an 11+ Music Scholarship keep their award throughout their time at Blundell's subject to satisfactory effort and attainment. Scholarships awarded at 13+ remain with pupils through to the end of their time at Blundell's school, although pupils can elect to compete again at 16+ in an attempt to increase the value of their award.
Pupils in Year 8 or Year 11 may apply to sit the scholarship examinations even if they failed to receive an award at an earlier stage. Pupils are not automatically entered, however, and must apply by the appropriate closing date.
On receipt of the scholarship application form Blundell’s will request a confidential report and reference from the candidate’s current school and this will form an important part of the assessment process.
All exams are sat at Blundell’s. When candidates live abroad it may be possible, given enough notice, to arrange for papers to be sat at the candidate’s school.
Candidates may stay in a boarding house overnight during the examination period.
Sample papers for 11+ Entry Examinations and 13+ Scholarships are available on the school website or on application.
Entry forms for 13+Scholarship and 11+Awards applications are available on the school website from July onwards of the year of application, or can be obtained from the Admissions Coordinator on admissions@blundells.org
We are delighted to share that Blundell's School has been ranked 244th in The Times' Parent Power list, a prestigious ranking based on GCSE and A-Level results.
Our position reflects the strong academic achievements of our pupils, particularly given the highly selective nature of many of the schools ranked alongside us.
Nestled in 12 acres of stunning Devon countryside, Blundell's Prep is a school where learning goes beyond the classroom. Our Open Morning on Monday, 27th January, is your chance to explore our vibrant community and see how we inspire young minds.
We pride ourselves on our small, superbly equipped classes, generous staff-to-pupil ratios, and the personalized academic and pastoral care we provide. With endless outdoor learning opportunities, our pupils thrive both in and out of the classroom.
To attend, please book your place by contacting the School Office on 01884 252393 or emailing 📧 prep@blundells.org. Please note that booking is essential.
Chris Filbey, the new Second Master to take over from Matt Radley in September 2025. Chris is currently an Assistant Head at Epsom College where he was previously a Housemaster. Before that he was Head of Modern Languages at Haileybury. I look forward to working with Chris and we will introduce him to the wider Blundell’s community in due course.
Blundell’s School is proud to release A Blundell’s Christmas, a collection of carols performed by choirs from Year 4 to Year 13. Now streaming on Spotify, the album showcases our pupils’ remarkable talent and celebrates a year of musical highlights, including performances at Exeter Cathedral, Bath Abbey, a summer tour to Italy, and Choral Evensong at Westminster Abbey.
Blundell’s is thrilled to announce our investment in The Wellbeing Hub by Teen Tips, a comprehensive resource dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our Senior School community. With expert-led, evidence-based tools, The Wellbeing Hub will empower pupils, parents, and staff with guidance and resources to support students’ social, emotional, and educational needs. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
During this Autumn Term, our Drama Scholars delivered an impressive Autumn Showcase featuring their examination pieces. The performances spanned Restoration Comedy, Comedy of Manners, Musical Theatre, contemporary works, and original material.
The evening highlighted the scholars’ talent, creativity, and dedication, showcasing the high standard of drama at Blundell’s. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing their continued growth.
House Music was a highlight of the term, with standout performances from Reuben (Old House) winning the Solo Performance Trophy and Nico (Westlake) earning Best Individual Contribution. North Close won the Ensemble Trophy, and Old House claimed both the House Song and overall titles. Pupils were praised for their energy and effort throughout the event.
An incredible experience for our pupils to sing in one of the world’s most famous churches
Blundell’s School pupils have achieved the school’s highest ever GCSE results, for exams taken under standard conditions.
This extraordinary achievement reflects the unwavering dedication and effort our pupils have poured into their studies.