Located in North Wales, Rydal Penrhos is a leading independent school committed to supporting young talent through its scholarships and bursaries. By offering financial assistance to families, Rydal Penrhos helps ensure that exceptional pupils can access the high-quality education we provide, regardless of their financial background.

Frequently Asked Questions on Scholarships and Financial Support at Rydal Penrhos

Does Rydal Penrhos offer financial assistance?
Yes, Rydal Penrhos offers financial support through scholarships and bursaries. Our scholarships are available to all eligible applicants, with awards granted based on specific criteria and a structured application process.

What types of scholarships and bursaries are available at Rydal Penrhos?
We offer three main types of financial assistance to pupils looking to attend a North Wales private school:

Fully Funded Places: Covering all school fees for eligible pupils entering Year 7 or Year 12, awarded based on academic merit and financial need.

Scholarship Premiums: Recognising pupils with outstanding talent in various fields, these awards come with a small financial grant to support personal pursuits.

Bursaries: Additional fee support for pupils awarded a Scholarship Premium, determined based on household income.

How long do scholarships and bursaries last at Rydal Penrhos?

Scholarship awards are typically granted for the pupil’s entire time at Rydal Penrhos, through to the end of Year 13, as long as the pupil maintains excellent standards. The continuation of Fully Funded Places and Bursaries is also subject to financial reassessment.

Does Rydal Penrhos require an entrance exam?

Rydal Penrhos, as a non-selective independent school, does not have a traditional entrance exam. However, pupils joining in Year 7 or above take a Cognitive Ability Test (CAT), which helps the school tailor support and identify scholarship eligibility.

How do Fully Funded Places work at Rydal Penrhos?

Each year, Fully Funded Places are awarded to high-achieving pupils who meet the school’s financial criteria. These awards cover all school fees, meals, uniform, and may include free school transport. Families must have a household income of £40,000 or less to qualify.

What are the eligibility criteria for Fully Funded Places?

The selection process includes two stages:

Academic Assessment: Pupils attend an Assessment Day in January, where they complete a Cognitive Ability Test (CAT) and an interview. Performance in the CAT, along with school reports and other achievements, are used to make a conditional offer.

Financial Assessment: Families of successful candidates undergo a means-tested financial assessment conducted by an external assessor. This includes a home visit and a review of income, ensuring eligibility for a Fully Funded Place.

What are Scholarship Premiums, and how are they awarded?

Scholarship Premiums reward pupils with notable talent and achievement across disciplines. Open to current and new pupils, they are awarded based on CAT scores, interviews, and accomplishments, with no additional application required.

Types of Scholarship Premiums include:

Academic Scholarships: For pupils from Year 7 onwards, based on CAT scores and interviews.

Art, Drama, Sport, and Music Scholarships: For demonstrated talent in these areas.

Scholarship Premium recipients receive £500 per year (or £750 in Sixth Form) to support their educational pursuits, along with guidance from a dedicated mentor.

Can pupils receive multiple Scholarship Premiums?

While pupils may hold only one Scholarship Premium each year, those excelling in multiple areas may receive an Honorary Scholarship, recognising them as a scholar in additional disciplines without an extra financial award.

Who qualifies for a Bursary at Rydal Penrhos?

Bursaries are available to pupils with a Scholarship Premium who meet the financial criteria. Families must have a household income under £60,000 per year, with minimal monetisable assets.

How is Bursary eligibility assessed?

Eligibility for a Bursary is determined through a means-tested assessment, including income documentation and a home visit. This process mirrors that used for Fully Funded Places.

What level of assistance does a Bursary provide?

Bursary support is on a sliding scale, with full fee coverage for households earning £40,000 or less. As household income rises in increments of £2,000, the support decreases by 10%, with assistance capped at a £60,000 household income.

How can I apply or find out more about Rydal Penrhos Scholarships and Bursaries?

To learn more about scholarships, bursaries, and Fully Funded Places at our North Wales private school, please fill out the enquiry form below, contact our Admissions team at admissions@rydalpenrhos.com, or call 01492 530155 (Option 3).