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As our academic scholars in the Upper Sixth receive offers from Oxbridge and Ivy League Universities, our Director of Academic Extension, Amanda Campion, explains why the programme is so special.
What is the academic scholarship programme?
Amanda: The programme is not a financial scholarship but is, instead, designed to provide enriching academic experiences that nurture curiosity, collaboration and community. Scholars benefit from a residential trip, access to exclusive talks and workshops, friendships, and the opportunity to take part in stretch projects with like minded peers.
Once our 2025 graduating scholars receive their results over the summer, they will confirm places at a range of prestigious institutions that include Oxford, Cambridge, Princeton, Emory (NYU), LSE, Durham, Bocconi (Italy), UCL, Rice University, St Andrews and Bath
How are pupils selected to join?
Amanda: A small number of academic scholarships are awarded in Year 8 and we will be welcoming nine scholars in September’s incoming cohort of Third Formers. Many more are chosen towards the end of Third Form after we’ve spent a year getting to know our new pupils. While academic performance is a key consideration, we also look at lesson observations and tutor and HM feedback in order to select pupils who exhibit a natural curiosity and an enthusiasm for learning. Between 22 and 26 Third Form academic scholars are welcomed to the programme each year at a celebration event in the Summer Term.
We know that children mature at different rates so the programme is always open and additional pupils are invited to join in the Fourth Form and Lower Sixth.
What activities and experiences make up the programme?
Amanda: For our small number of Third Form scholars, we organise a smorgasbord of weekly activities and sessions with subject specialists to excite them about different disciplines including Architecture, Astrobiology, Ecology, Economic Thought, Engineering, Music Technology, Linguistics and Psychology. Last academic year, the Scholars completed reflections on two of these sessions over Christmas. They then independently investigated a subject of their choice in more depth and produced a research poster which they presented to an audience of parents, staff and peers. The winner was awarded the Matthew Oakman Prize for Academic Extension.
I think your scholars programme is world class and has really held Tabs in the storm that is year three. You have given them all a safe space to explore their brains and the world around them which is all we would ever ask for. – Parent of Third Form Academic Scholar
Once our larger cohort of academic scholars is established at the start of Fourth Form, we launch the programme with a residential trip to Cambridge where the scholars get to know each other better and take part in academic workshops (led by experts like Mo Tanweer from Judge Institute talking about “Game Theory”), a cycling tour of the city, punting and an escape room. Back at school, scholars benefit from public speaking workshops, Harkness discussions, balloon debates and talks from external speakers, including – coming up in September 2025 – neuroscientist Professor Baroness Susan Greenfield.
In Fifth Form, scholars take a term-long course in either Philosophy of Maths or Philosophy of Sport. They then collaborate in small groups to delve deep into the topic and research a question. Their challenge is to not only master their subject but to communicate their insights with creativity and precision. The result is an inspiring showcase of interactive stands, thought-provoking displays, and dynamic games designed to captivate an audience of parents, pupils, and staff.
Every session leaves you with a ‘wow’ face, offering something new and truly mind-boggling. It’s been brilliant to be part of a group where we all thrive on exploration and deep thinking, sharing our passion for learning in its purest form. – Nefeli M, Fifth Form Academic Scholar
Last year’s winning project explored the fascinating mathematical theory behind the idea that we are all just six degrees of separation from anyone on the planet—even Lady Gaga! While runners-up created an immersive stadium simulation to illustrate the impact of VAR technology in football examining how cognitive biases and recent rule changes influence decision-making from multiple perspectives.
What happens in the Sixth Form?
Amanda:
After the GCSE results are announced, recipients of academic colours are invited to join the programme on an invitational basis for a term, after which they have an opportunity to apply to be elevated to a full academic scholar. The same applies to new pupils joining in the Lower Sixth.
By the time pupils reach the Lent Term in the Lower Sixth there are typically around 40 scholars in the programme which accounts for 15% of the total year group.
In the first term of Lower Sixth, scholars take part in a series of short courses which consider a central theme from different perspectives. They then work with a partner from a different specialism to consider a research question. This year’s theme was ‘The Anthropocene’, while next year’s theme will address the implications of ‘Being Human in an Age of AI’. With an atmosphere of curiosity and fun, these projects encourage talented pupils to stretch themselves.
The thing that I’ve enjoyed most about the Academic Scholar programme is the opportunity to explore ideas that are beyond our usual Wellington curriculum, especially with a group of equally curious people. – Dan B, Upper School Academic Scholar
The programme not only enhances pupils’ subject knowledge but also strengthens their university applications. Recently, scholar James A used his maths model as part of a successful application to study Economics at Cambridge.
More from pupils and parents:
For me, the highlight of the Academic Scholarship Programme was the opportunity to engage in meaningful intellectual conversations with subject experts, conduct fully independent research projects, and present to like-minded peers. – Quentin F, Academic Scholar 2025 Leaver
The variety means there’s always something new to think about, and I think it’s helped me develop both my critical thinking and academic curiosity. – Jesse O, Third Form Academic Scholar
Our daughter has gained so much from the stimulating activities she has participated in as an academic scholar. The programme has been varied and stretching which has made the scholarship more than just an accolade. As parents we have enjoyed attending scholarship events, such as watching our daughter in a public speaking competition or presenting her project work. This has enabled us to celebrate her achievements and to feel part of this enriching aspect of her school life. – Parent of Fourth Form Academic Scholar
