Bursary Awards
As a charity, St Helen’s is committed to widening access to an exceptional education to all prospective pupils, irrespective of financial means or social circumstances.
The St Helen’s Bursary Programme exists to enable pupils to attend St Helen’s who would not otherwise be able to do so for financial reasons and currently provides support totalling over £1.2m per year to more than 78 pupils at the school.
The programme involves a dual offering consisting of a means tested financial award, which can, in some cases, cover 100% of fees and a comprehensive package of support which enables pupils to thrive academically, socially and personally while they are at St Helen’s. This package of support is delivered by the Engagement and Support Lead who has overall responsibility for the academic and pastoral progress of Bursary students.
All students receive 1:1 mentoring sessions and coaching, and regular feedback sessions for parents and additional parental guidance and support is offered where this would be beneficial. For those receiving a full bursary, the package also includes school lunches, the use of the school coach service (to and from school), specific items of uniform for Year 7 only, a compulsory co-curricular activity in Year 10, compulsory educational trips and visits and a loaned school device.
Being part of the Bursary Programme means entering into a partnership with the school through which we work together to ensure that all pupils are able to fulfil their potential at St Helen’s.
Bursaries are not linked to Scholarships and a girl could receive both. Bursaries are awarded on entrance to St Helen’s at 11+ and 16+ and are awarded and reviewed annually to reflect any changes in financial circumstances.
Parents who are paying fees in whole or part and who experience financial difficulties are eligible to apply for short-term assistance subject to the availability of funds.
Parents of new applicants to the school who wish to apply for a Bursary will be required to complete a confidential online financial questionnaire after registration.
More information on bursaries can be found in the School’s Bursary and Hardship Policy or by contacting the School Accountant on 01923 843224.
You can also find more information on our Bursary FAQs here.
Receiving a Bursary enabled me to stay on in Sixth Form and finish my studies with peace of mind that the financial side of my education was taken care of. I was able to finish my A Levels with the support of teachers who have known me for most of my life.
As a result, I am now at the University of Bristol, the university I always dreamed of going to and I am studying the perfect course for me, Experimental Psychology. I am so thankful to the school for allowing me to explore all of my options and become the person I am today.
Yass Rad, Alumna
