EDUCATION
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
SCHOLARSHIPS & BURSARIES : UNLOCKING THE DOORS TO KENT ’ S LEADING INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
INDEPENDENT EDUCATION IN KENT OFFERS OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITIES , BUT FOR MANY FAMILIES COST IS A MAJOR CONSIDERATION . FORTUNATELY , SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES PROVIDE FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR TALENTED AND DESERVING STUDENTS , ENSURING THAT AN ELITE EDUCATION IS WITHIN REACH , REGARDLESS OF BACKGROUND .
Scholarships : Recognising Excellence Most independent schools in Kent offer scholarships in key areas :
• Academic : Schools like Tonbridge , Cranbrook and Sevenoaks reward outstanding academic ability through entrance exams and interviews .
• Sporting : Exceptional athletes can secure scholarships at institutions like Kent College , Claremont and Sutton Valence , which has strong rugby and equestrian programmes .
• Music & Performing Arts : Schools such as Benenden , The King ’ s School Canterbury and Kent College offer awards to gifted musicians , actors and dancers .
• STEM & Innovation : A growing number of schools , including Ashford School and Claremont , are introducing scholarships for excellence in science , maths and technology .
Scholarships usually offer a percentage discount on fees rather than full funding , but they open doors to mentoring , enrichment activities and networking opportunities .
Bursaries : Financial Support Based on Need Bursaries are means-tested and can cover up to 100 % of tuition fees . Schools such as The King ’ s School and St Edmund ’ s Canterbury have generous bursary funds aimed at widening access for families who could not otherwise afford independent education . The Duke of York Royal Military School offers substantial funding for children of those serving in the armed forces , meaning they pay just 8 % fees . Some schools prioritise bursaries for students who perform well in entrance exams but require financial assistance to accept their place .
Applying for Financial Assistance Each school has its own application process , typically requiring detailed financial disclosure and , in the case of scholarships , a demonstration of talent . Applications are competitive , so parents should prepare well in advance , seek guidance from the school ’ s admissions team and consider multiple options .
A Life-Changing Opportunity For students who secure scholarships or bursaries , the benefits go far beyond financial support . Gaining a place at a top Kent independent school can transform their academic journey , providing lifelong networks , university opportunities and personal growth .
With a range of funding options available , Kent ’ s independent schools are proving that excellence should never be limited by financial barriers . For families considering private education , exploring scholarships and bursaries could be the key to unlocking an outstanding future .
178 • www . insidekent . co . uk