Application information
Closing date for applications: 18 September 2026
The Design assessment will be based on a portfolio of recent work showing their design ability and diversity, a practical assessment (sketching design solutions to a problem) and an interview with the Head of Design.
The task is designed to test the abilities of strong Design & Technology GCSE candidates from a range of backgrounds and experience.
Candidates must submit a digital portfolio but also bring examples or a portfolio of recent work to be discussed at the interview. If complete tasks cannot be brought, appropriate photographs, design folders, relevant design work or CAD records should be brought.
All candidates who wish to be considered for a Design Scholarship MUST attend Rugby School for a practical assessment. Practical assessment will take place on 8 October 2026 from 14.30 to 17.00 in the Design Centre, Rugby School.
If a Design Scholarship is awarded, the pupil will be required to take Design as an A level or an IB Higher subject subject, and would be encouraged to apply for a national Arkwright Award (see below).
Next steps
For more information, please contact Miss Jennifer White, Head of Design.
To apply for a Design Scholarship, please submit the below form.
Arkwright Engineering Scholarships
Arkwright Scholarships are intended for those likely to study Engineering at university (or possibly a Design-related course). The written papers for this award are based on Design capability. Any Academic Scholar of the School is, in effect, eligible to sit for an Arkwright Scholarship if they intend to study Engineering. More details can be found here.