Preston College

Gifted and Talented Scholarships

Preston College scholarships are designed to support gifted and talented students from all backgrounds, and with any gift or talent, realise their full potential.  Successful scholars will be expected to contribute fully to the life of the College.

Scholarships are highly sought after and very prestigious, but remember 'you've got to be in it to win it' so why not apply as you have nothing to lose!

Frequently asked questions

How can I apply for a Preston College Scholarship?

Application Forms are available from the Schools Liaison Team and your Careers teacher.  You can also telephone the Advice Centre on 01772 22 55 22.

Which courses does the scholarship apply to?

All Preston College full-time courses as outlined in the 2012-13 'A Level, Vocational & Apprenticeship Course Directory'.

Who is the scholarship for?

Scholarships are available for school leavers accepted to study full-time courses at Preston College.

You may be gifted and/or talented in any discipline but you will need to demonstrate how your gift/talent will be developed whilst at College.  You will also need to indicate what your chosen programme of study will be at Preston College.

You will need to provide any physical evidence of your gift or talent as part of your application.

You will be required to supply a letter from your school's Gifted and Talented lead teacher (or equivalent) to support your application.

How much is the scholarship worth?

A gifted and talented scholarship is worth £1,500 per year for up to two years. However, a Preston College Scholarship is more valuable than this.

As a scholar you will not only benefit financially, but as an ambassador you will enhance your UCAS application from and be encouraged to work with students in local schools, inspiring them to go on to study at Preston College.

How can I apply?

Download an application form here

Completed scholarship applications should be sent, together with your College application form, to:

Preston College

Schools Liaison Team

St Vincents Road

Preston

PR2 8UR

How do I complete the Application Form?

All sections of the form must be completed in full. Any incomplete or inaccurate applications will not be considered. The application form comes with guidance notes and you should read these carefully before starting.

All applicants will have to provide a reference from the Head Teacher/Principal, together with a supporting statement from the school's Gifted and Talented lead teacher, if applicable, in order to verify the authenticity of the application.

Please do not send original copies of documents or course work as we will be unable to return them due to the number of applications.

Personal statement

This is a vitally important section of the application form.  It is essential that you clearly justify why you are suitable for a Preston College Scholarship.  Within this section you will need to clearly identify what your gift or talent is, with supporting evidence.

How will my application be assessed?

Initially applications will be checked by Student Services to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria. A selection panel will meet in the April prior to courses starting, to decide on the students to be shortlisted for interviews.

Interviews will vary depending on the applicant's talent or gift and may in some cases involve an audition, presentation or practical assessment. Further details will be contained in the letter.  Following the interview, applicants will receive a letter stating that they have either been unsuccessful or that they have been conditionally offered a scholarship. The conditions will state that they must meet the entry criteria stated for the scholarship and intend to start their studies in September.

If I do not receive a scholarship will this affect my application to study at Preston College?

No. If you are not successful in securing a scholarship, this will not affect your application for a full-time course.

How is the scholarship paid?

Scholarships will be paid in three installments of £500 per year, totaling £1,500 per year and £3000 in total.  The money will be paid directly into your bank account and you will need to complete a BACS form if successful.

How will my performance be managed?

Your performance will be managed weekly by your personal tutor.  You will need to maintain attendance and punctuality above 90% and your performance must be at or above your target grade.  You will also need to fulfill your responsibilities as a Preston College Scholar as outlined in the Scholarship Agreement

Can my scholarship be stopped?

If offered a scholarship you will be required to sign an agreement that outlines what support you can expect from the College and what the College's expectations are of you.  You will need to abide by the agreement as failure to do so will result in the creation of an action plan, which if not met may result in the suspension of your scholarship.

More information

If you have any further questions or need more information on the Gifted and Talented Scholarships call Student Services on 01772 22 56 56.