Bursary Programme

The Orchard House School Bursary Programme offers life-changing opportunities to bright and promising children whose families would not otherwise be able to afford an independent fee-paying school.

Bursaries are awarded and funded by Orchard House School Educational Trust (OHSET), a registered charity which works closely with, but independently of, Orchard House School. OHSET raises funds year-round from the school community and supporters to make these opportunities possible.

If you would like to apply for a bursary, please use this form.

How our bursaries work

Your child may be eligible for a bursary if you can demonstrate the need for financial support.

Bursary awards: Bursaries can cover up to 100% of fees, depending on your family’s financial circumstances.
Additional support: Bursaries can also contribute to the cost of uniforms, school trips and other educational expenses.
Entry points: Bursaries are typically awarded to children joining Year 3 (aged 7+), although applications for Years 4 or 5 may occasionally be considered.
Residency: Your child must have the right to reside in the UK to be eligible.

If you are applying for a bursary for your child to join Orchard House School in September 2026, please see below for key dates and details, and apply using this form.

For younger children, you can register your interest for a future bursary place here.

Application timeline

31 January – Final date to submit your initial bursary application.
Within one week – You will receive confirmation that your application has been received.
Mid-February – OHSET will update you on the status of your application and next steps. At this stage, you may be asked to:
- Complete a more detailed form and provide a short written statement.
- Share recent reports from your child’s current school.
- Take part in a confidential financial review conducted by an independent specialist, which may include a home visit.
Mid-March – Two visits to Orchard House, typically one week apart:
- A half-day visit for your child, including an informal assessment and classroom experience.
- A parent interview to learn more about your family and your child’s interests.
- The school may also contact your child’s current school for a reference
Beginning of the summer term (latest) – OHSET will communicate final decisions

Financial requirements

We do not set fixed income thresholds for bursary eligibility. Instead, we work with a specialist company to gain a clear and fair understanding of each family’s financial situation.

Our focus is on awarding transformational bursaries – typically covering 100% of fees – to children who would not otherwise be able to access private education.

As a general guideline, if your combined gross household income exceeds £100,000, it is unlikely that you would qualify for a bursary.

You can read our OHSET Privacy Policy here.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I apply for a bursary?

Applications for September 2026 entry open in autumn 2025 and must be
submitted by 31 January 2026. You are welcome to register your interest
for later years at any time using the interest form.

What is the typical entry point for bursary students?

Most bursary awards are made for Year 3 entry, when children are 7 years
old. Occasionally, bursaries may be available for entry into Years 4 or 5,
depending on available funding and school places.

What does a bursary cover?

Depending on your financial circumstances, a bursary may cover up to
100% of tuition fees. We may also assist with the cost of uniform,
educational trips, and other essential items to ensure every child can
participate fully in school life.

How many bursary places are available?

Typically one or two new bursary places are awarded each year,
depending on the availability of funds and suitable candidates.

Does Orchard House offer scholarships?

No. Orchard House School does not offer scholarships based on academic,
musical, or sporting achievement.

What’s the difference between a scholarship and a bursary?

A scholarship is usually awarded for outstanding ability or talent in a
particular area. A bursary is awarded based on financial need, to ensure
that a child who will thrive at Orchard House has the opportunity to do so
regardless of family income.

Is there a limit for my household income to be eligible for a bursary?

We don’t set strict income limits, but as a guide, families with a combined
household income above £100,000 are unlikely to qualify. Each case is
assessed individually by an independent specialist who considers the full
financial picture, including income, assets, and dependents.

What are the eligibility requirements?

We look at both the child and family circumstances. We consider
financial need, the likelihood that the child will thrive academically and
socially at Orchard House, and how well the school can support the child’s
development.

What is your sibling policy for bursaries?

You are welcome to apply for a bursary for a sibling, but we cannot
guarantee that bursaries will be available for multiple children in the same
family. Each application is considered on its individual merits and subject to
available funds.

How do you check applicants’ financial circumstances?

We partner with an independent financial assessment company that
conducts a confidential, professional review of your family’s finances. This
includes reviewing documents such as payslips, bank statements, and tax
returns, and may involve a home visit. The process ensures fairness and
consistency for all applicants.

Are children assessed based on their abilities?

Orchard House School is non-selective. Children take part in a relaxed
and friendly assessment to help us understand their learning style and
ensure they will be happy and thrive in the school environment.

Bursary Programme