What do Sports Scholars at Sedbergh receive?

Sports Scholars take part fully in the training and competition programme for their scholarship sports, under the direction of the relevant Director or Head of Sport. A core pillar of Sedbergh sport is a belief in diversification and late specialisation; therefore junior Sports Scholars are required to select at least two scholarship sports. Additional development opportunities are provided according to each pupil’s age, performance level and individual needs.

Sport-specific development

Within each scholarship sport, pupils follow a structured programme of specialist coaching, regular timetabled training and competitive fixtures.

  • Specialist coaching from Sedbergh’s Directors, Heads of Sport and the wider coaching team
  • Five timetabled games sessions each week, providing regular training and competition
  • Extensive weekly fixture programmes against schools, clubs and representative sides
  • Technical, tactical and physical development within each sport’s seasonal programme
  • Established development pathways from Sedbergh Prep School through to the Senior School and Sixth Form
  • Individual feedback and performance support as needed.

Athletic development

Sports Scholars develop the physical foundations needed to train, compete and recover effectively. Provision is tailored to the pupil’s age, stage of physical development, scholarship sport and training demands.

Provision includes:

  • Supervised strength and conditioning
  • Access throughout the week to the dedicated weights gym and the fitness facilities in the Hirst Centre
  • Sport-specific athletic development programmes addressing strength, movement, speed, power and conditioning
  • Injury-prevention work and support with rehabilitation and return to sport
  • Education and practical guidance on nutrition, recovery and effective training habits.

Performance understanding

Sports Scholars are encouraged to understand their own performance, respond constructively to feedback and take increasing responsibility for their development.

According to the sport, age and stage of development, this may include:

  • Individual and team video analysis
  • Periodic reviews and technical feedback
  • Individual coaching
  • Use of performance data and analysis
  • Coaching focused on decision-making and game understanding
  • Mentoring and supported goal-setting.

Balancing sporting ambition and academic progress

Sports Scholars are supported to plan ahead, communicate clearly and take increasing responsibility for balancing their sporting and academic commitments.

Support includes:

  • Planning for training, fixtures and academic deadlines
  • Communicating external competitions, trials and selection camps in advance
  • Developing effective routines around sleep, recovery, study and preparation
  • Anticipating periods when sporting and academic demands are likely to coincide
  • Reviewing priorities and taking responsibility for agreed actions
  • Exploring future sporting, academic and dual-career pathways.

Character, leadership and contribution

Sports Scholars are expected to set a positive example through their attitude, commitment and conduct, and to contribute to the wider sporting life of the School.

As they progress through Sedbergh, scholars are expected to:

  • Lead by example, modelling sportsmanship, commitment and respect
  • Support and encourage younger players
  • Contribute to team success beyond their own individual performance
  • Take opportunities to share their experience and learning with the wider sporting community
  • Engage proactively with sport-related service activities
  • Help sustain the culture and traditions of sport at Sedbergh.

 

The Sports Scholars journey from Year 9 to Year 13

The precise programme for each Sports Scholar will reflect their age, principal sport, stage of development and competition schedule. Opportunities such as individual coaching, video analysis, specialist external training and travel support vary between sports and are arranged where appropriate.

How to apply for a Sports Scholarship at Sedbergh School

Please register your interest in a Sedbergh scholarship and we will provide you with information on completing your application. Please note that applicants for a scholarship must first submit an application to attend Sedbergh School; therefore, an application fee and additional documentation will be required before we can confirm attendance at a Scholarship Assessment Day.

2026/27 assessment dates for 13+ and 14+

November 2026 – Art, Drama, Music and Sport
February 2027 – Academic, Art, Drama, Design Technology, Music and Sport

2026/27 assessment dates for 16+

November 2026 – Academic, Art, Drama, Design Technology, Music and Sport
March 2027 – Sixth Form

Scholarship Awards

Scholarship Awards recognise exceptional talent and potential in specific disciplines. Recipients may also be eligible for a fee concession of up to 20%.

We understand that the financial aspect of education is significant. If your child’s enrolment at Sedbergh depends on fee support, please consult with the Admissions Department before beginning the scholarship application process.

To find out more please contact our Admissions team on +44 (0) 1524 279 211 or admissions@sedberghschool.org

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