RCHK Scholarship Policies and Procedures 2013-2014.pdf

General Information“What we want to see is the child in pursuit of knowledge, not knowledge in pursuit of the child.”George Bernard ShawRenaissance College Hong Kong (RCHK) is a world-class coeducational independent school andan IB World School. Located in the heart of Hong Kong’s New Territories, the College wasestablished as the flagship of the English Schools Foundation (ESF) in 2006 to serve the needs ofthe local and international expatriate community in Hong Kong.Students are educated from Year one to university entrance on one campus, guided by anexperienced international faculty. Our student body comprises 38 nationalities, with 25 languagesrepresented on campus. English is the medium of instruction.Apple Asia describes Renaissance College as a leading school in the region and technology isintegrated college-wide throughout the curriculum.Renaissance College encourages students to pursue knowledge, learn through service, and striveto build a better world through action.Our Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) programme is integral to college life. Students participatein a myriad of artistic, musical, sporting, and service activities conducted on and off-campus.The Renaissance College Scholarships Programme provides pathways for motivated and talentedsecondary students who strive for excellence and are empowered to take progressive action.Full scholarships are available for students from Year 7 to Year 13. Scholarship criteria are basedon demonstrated academic ability, artistic and creative aptitude, sporting prowess and acommitment to service and leadership. Applicants should choose from one of five scholarships:academic, music, drama, visual arts and sports. Candidates are advised that the process isdetailed and rigorous.The deadline for receipt of applications is 4 March 2013. The Scholarship Selection Test date is23 March 2013. Applicants will be notified about the testing schedule by 15 March 2013. Shortlisted applicants will be notified about the interview schedule in April or May 2013. All applicantsshould be eligible to enter Renaissance College in August 2013.Page 1

Types of Scholarships• Academic Scholarships• Music Scholarships• Drama Scholarships• Visual Art Scholarships• Sports ScholarshipsAcademic Scholarships DescriptionAcademically talented students often show high levels of abstract thinking, verbal and numericalreasoning, spatial relations, rapid information processing, memory and word fluency. They havethe ability to be flexible and cooperative, a commitment to performance and high academicstandards.Students applying for academic scholarships should show a demonstrated ability to fosteradvanced analytical, critical and creative thinking skills essential to achieving success in theInternational Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP).A key feature of Renaissance College MYP and DP Programmes is student involvement in theCreativity, Action, and Service (CAS) Programme. Renaissance College students have theopportunity to become involved in public speaking and debating, sporting and arts competitionsand events, student leadership programs, and service to community. Renaissance Collegescholarship students should strive to engage in rigorous and stimulating learning and enrichmentexperiences both within and beyond the classroom.Music Scholarships DescriptionRenaissance College invites talented music students to apply for Music Scholarships. Studentswill have access to quality resources, experienced teachers and will be encouraged to developmentoring relationships with professionals who excel in their chosen field.Students applying for Music Scholarships should strive to develop their ability and love for musicthrough music creation, analysis, performance and reflection, and by attending a range of musicactivities both inside and outside school. Talented music students will have the opportunity topursue music endeavours within and beyond the classroom. Music is timetabled within the regularcurriculum but students also have the opportunity to participate in various musical activities anddemonstrate their leadership potentials.Drama Scholarships DescriptionDrama Scholarships are offered to students who are likely to make an outstanding contribution(either performance or technical) to the College in Drama and Theatre Arts. It is expected that thecandidates have already made a significant contribution to their present school or localcommunity. Through performance, candidates should be able to demonstrate the ability tointerpret written material in a dramatic context. They should demonstrate the ability to create andconvey character, mood, atmosphere, emotion and narrative with flair and accomplishment.Other than the “Performance” Drama Scholarship, there is also an opportunity to provideinterested candidates with “Technical” Drama Scholarship, where knowledge and experience intheatre design or technical skills are offered.Page 2

Visual Art Scholarships DescriptionVisual Art scholarships honor students who demonstrate outstanding artwork with clear evidenceof technical proficiency and a distinctive personal aesthetic. Students are expected to excel in thepractice of art and be willing to take part in the co-curricular activities of the art department.Talented art students at the College will be exposed to a stimulating environment, a multidisciplinaryapproach, a wider and deeper understanding of art within its historical context, and abroader sense of career perspectives and opportunities.Sports Scholarships DescriptionSports Scholarships are awarded to students in recognition of outstanding achievement in Sports.Students applying for this scholarship must be highly competent in two of the College basedsports across 2 of the 3 seasons of sport (to view our College based seasonal sports pleasefollow the link: http://www.renaissance.edu.hk/content/sports). Prospective candidates mustdemonstrate high achievement and effort in physical education and athletic programmes and havea commitment to leading and developing the sports culture at the college. Sports Scholars areexpected to attend and assist in sports and promotional events at the college such astournaments, scholarship evenings and the School Fair. This includes taking part in the RCHK’steams in ACAMIS tournaments, which are hosted by International school’s, often in neighbouringcountries.Under the Sports Scholarship programme, students must maintain a very high standard inPhysical Education classes and co-curricular commitments while meeting overall academicstandards. They are also expected to continue developing their sporting skills and knowledgebeyond school commitments.Page 3

EligibilityBelow are the entry year levels:Academic Scholarships: for Years 7 – 13Music Scholarships: for Years 7 – 13Drama Scholarships: for Year 10 – 13Visual Art Scholarships: for Years 10 – 13Sports Scholarships: for Years 10 – 13Both new applicants to the college and current students at the college are welcome to apply. Tobe eligible to apply for a Renaissance College Scholarship, age appropriate students must be ableto undertake full time study at the college commencing August 2013. All applicants are stronglyadvised to consider the following general admissions criteria before deciding to proceed with anapplication:• Applicants must be able to cope with an English-medium curriculum• Applicants must be able to demonstrate self-discipline and responsibilityConditions: Application, Selection, Offer Processes and PoliciesApplicationThe complete Scholarship Programme Folio (including applicant and referee forms) isdownloadable from the school’s website:http://www.renaissance.edu.hk/content/applicationAlternatively you may request a folio from:Scholarships ManagerRenaissance College5 Hang Ming StreetMa On ShanNew TerritoriesHong KongTelephone: (852) 3556 3536Completed and signed application forms and referee statements must be sent to the AdmissionsOffice no later than 4pm, Monday, 4 March 20123. Applications must be completed in ink andcannot be sent by email. Applicants must attach all supporting documentation to their application.Applications will not be considered if they are:• Submitted late• Not signed• Incomplete• Not accompanied by required supporting documentation• Completed in pencilStudents who applied for a Renaissance College Scholarship in previous years and wereunsuccessful may apply again for August 2013 entry.Page 4

Application TimelineSuccessful students are offered Academic or Other Scholarships following an extensive selection process.4 Mar 2013 Applications close at 4:00 pmby 15 Mar 2013 Notification of testing arrangements posted to all Academic scholarships applicants23 March 2013 Academic Scholarship Selection Test conducted at Renaissance CollegeApril to May 2013 Music, Drama, Visual Art and Sports Scholarship applicants attend workshop andaudition at Renaissance CollegeMay to June 2013 Interviews for Academic and Other Scholarships conducted at Renaissance CollegeJune 2013 Posting of all performance reports: All applicants advised of outcomeSelection ProcessAll complete applications received by the due date will be screened to ensure applicants satisfythe basic eligibility criteria. Following general testing and specialist auditions, short-listedcandidates will attend a guided interview with a Scholarship Programme Panel. Final scholarshipselection will be made by the Renaissance College Scholarship Programme Committee.Academic Scholarships SelectionSelection of academic scholars is based on the results of screening, testing, and interviewscoordinated by the Renaissance College Scholarships Committee. The scholarship test includesindividual assessments in the areas of mathematics, science (Year 8 and above), language,writing and academic potential.Applicants will be notified of the testing date, time, venue and assessment procedures by 15March 2013. All students who sit for the scholarships test will receive notice on whether or notthey have been successful in proceeding to the next interview stage by May 2013. After attendingthe subsequent individual interview, successful students will be offered a scholarship place forentry to Renaissance College, commencing August 2013.Music Scholarships SelectionThe two-stage selection process is based on musical talent and aptitude, and academic ability. Atthe first stage all applicants are requested to submit a recording of a recent performance on CDtogether with the application.The second stage involves an audition performance session on shortlisted candidates conductedat Renaissance College. Students will be asked to perform an individual audition using theirchosen instruments. Students are advised to present pieces appropriate to their level and to notattempt works that are below or above their present capabilities. In choosing audition piecesstudents should strive to select works that allow them to demonstrate technical skill, clarity, andrange on their chosen instrument.This second stage will take place in May 2013, at the Performing Arts Centre, RenaissanceCollege. After subsequent individual interviews, successful students will be offered a Musicscholarship place for entry to Renaissance College by June 2013.Page 5

Drama Scholarships SelectionSimilar to Music Scholarship selection process, Drama Scholarships selection also goes throughtwo phases. The first part is an interview session and the second part is an individual audition withthe selection panel.During the audition session, shortlisted candidates will be invited to perform two contrastingmonologues from modern or classical theatre play. They should choose their monologuescarefully so that they demonstrate a range of mature acting skills. Other theatrical skills such assong, dance, mime and improvisation may also be offered, together with evidence of theatredesign or technical expertise. Candidates are also required to bring with them a portfolio orscrapbook to showcase their involvement in theatre.Drama auditions will take place in May 2013, at the drama studio of Renaissance College.Following subsequent individual interviews, successful students will be offered a scholarship placefor entry to Renaissance College by June 2013.Visual Art Scholarships SelectionSelection, in two stages, is based on Visual Arts proficiency and aptitude, and academic ability. Atthe first stage all applicants will be invited to submit an art portfolio, which should include aminimum of 6 studio pieces and a workbook/sketch book.The second stage involves an exhibition / interview session conducted at Renaissance College.Shortlisted students will be invited to present their portfolio of work. Candidates are advised tochoose their work carefully so that they demonstrate a range of Visual Arts skills and techniques.Students will exhibit their work and provide an oral presentation to an interview/selectionpanel. Evidence of prior achievements and references will also be taken into consideration.This second stage will take place around May 2013, at Renaissance College.Successful students, should they pass the following interview session, will be offered ascholarship place for entry to Renaissance College by June 2013.Sports Scholarships SelectionProspective sports scholars within the school are encouraged to speak to Mr Ross or Mr Morganbefore going ahead with their application. Applicants should ensure they provide relevant andinformative references from their chosen referees with their application.The selection process for Sports Scholarships will also be two parts and assessed againstqualitative section criteria. The first step involves participating in a battery of general fitnesstests. The selection panel may request that the appicant provide further evidence of theircompetency in chosen sports by way of video evidence or to participate in sports specific skillstests on the same day as the fitness testing. For qualifying candidates, the second stage is a faceto-faceinterview with the Sports Scholarship Selection panel around May 2013.Successful candidates, after completing the final interview, will be notified of their final results byJune 2013.Page 6

Selection PoliciesScholarship General Selection CriteriaThe Renaissance College Scholarship Programme Committee will select students for aRenaissance College Scholarship. General selection criteria will inform and guide all selectiondecisions. The general Scholarship Selection Criteria includes Personal Qualities, ApplicationRequirements, and Knowledge of International Baccalaureate Programmes:Selection Criteria: Personal QualitiesRenaissance College seeks applications from globally minded young people who:• Possess skills necessary to conduct purposeful, constructive research• Are able to make sound decisions and to solve complex problems• Can receive and express ideas confidently in English• Demonstrate a commitment to learning languages other than English• Approach unfamiliar situations without anxiety• Have acquired a critical mass of significant knowledge• Have integrity, honesty, and a sense of fairness and justice• Show sensitivity towards the needs of others through service to the community• Respect the views, values and traditions of other individuals and cultures• Give thoughtful consideration to their own learningSelection Criteria: Application Requirements• Are full-time students• Demonstrate evidence of an outstanding academic record• Are committed to extra-curricular and community service activities: participation in schooland or community clubs and projects• Demonstrate leadership either in their academic, extra-curricular activities, or communityactivitiesSelection Criteria: Knowledge of International Baccalaureate Programmes• Students should inform themselves about the International Baccalaureate Programmesand its expectations (www.ibo.org)In addition to satisfying general Scholarship Selection Criteria, the Committee will select studentsin accordance with the specific selection criteria for the Scholarship Types that the candidate hasapplied for.Special ConsiderationApplicants and their families who believe that special consideration be given to an application dueto specific circumstances or events not able to be communicated in other parts of the applicationshould submit a letter marked CONFIDENTIAL and headed: “Special Consideration for (insert fullname of applicant).” All requests for special consideration must be able to be supported andverified if necessary.Other ScholarshipsReceipt of other scholarships will not necessarily preclude students from consideration, butapplicants are required to inform Renaissance College of any other scholarship or award whichthey hold.Page 7

RankingAcademic Scholarship applicants will initially be ranked according to academic merit on theoutcome of scholarship selection test, effort and achievement results within the immediate twelveto eighteen month reporting period. In addition, supporting documents, referee reports, portfolios,and evidence of a case for special consideration will be taken into careful account in determiningwhether the applicant will be short-listed for interview.Students with a strong commitment to academics and a demonstrated talent, ability, or pursuitthat brings honour to the college will be viewed highly. Most students successful in attaining anAcademic Scholarship are highly accomplished in one or more creative, active or service pursuits.In the case of other scholarship types, applicants will initially be ranked according to acombination of audition / interview performance, academic merit, along with effort andachievement results within the immediate eighteen-month reporting period. In addition, supportingdocuments, referee reports, portfolios, and evidence of a case for special consideration will betaken into careful account in determining whether the applicant will be short-listed for interview.Applicants are responsible for providing sufficient supporting documentation to support any claimfor special consideration.Offer Process and NotificationStudents and their families will be advised in writing of the outcome of their applications. Forstudents who are unsuccessful, this will include an individual report on each applicant’s testingand interview outcomes. Successful applicants will be advised in writing of the terms andconditions of the scholarship. At the time of accepting the offer they must accept the conditions ofthe scholarship and agree to provide relevant personal information to enable the college to assesseligibility (if necessary).Award DisbursementThe value of a Renaissance College Academic Scholarship or other Scholarship Types covers100% tuition fees for an entire academic year, subject to a student’s continuing eligibility to holdthe scholarship.Extraneous ExpensesThe Renaissance College Scholarship Programme does not provide financial assistance tostudents and their families for expenses extraneous to tuition fees. These include expenses suchas:• Textbooks• Stationery items• School uniforms• Field trips• Lunch programme• Miscellaneous LevyConditions of ScholarshipScholarship OfferStudents and their families will be advised in writing of the scholarship offer and the terms of thescholarship. Students must agree to accept the conditions of the scholarship and agree to providepersonal information relevant to assessing their ongoing eligibility to the college on reasonablerequest. This information will remain confidential between the college scholarship administrator,the Head of the College, and the applicant and their family.Page 8