Exceptional Talent Humanities Pathway
St Benedict’s School is delighted to launch the Exceptional Talent Humanities Pathway, beginning with Sixth Form entry in September 2026.
This pathway has been created for academically ambitious students with a genuine passion for the humanities. It offers structured academic stretch, enriched super-curricular opportunities and focused preparation for competitive university courses — alongside a commitment to widening access through means-tested bursaries of up to 100% of fees.
A Pathway for Intellectual Ambition
The humanities cultivate intellectual curiosity, analytical precision and cultural understanding. At St Benedict’s, they form a central part of our academic identity.
The Exceptional Talent Humanities Pathway provides:
- Seminar-style academic stretch
- Super-curricular enrichment beyond the A level specification
- Visiting speakers and academic events
- Structured preparation for competitive university applications
- A community of like-minded, intellectually curious students
This is a carefully designed academic experience that deepens understanding and encourages independent thought.
Subjects Within the Pathway
Students on the pathway will study A levels drawn from the following disciplines:
- English Literature
- Latin
- French
- Spanish
- German
- Medieval & Early Modern History
- Music
- Philosophy, Ethics & Religion
These subjects reflect both our established strengths and our commitment to sustaining distinctive academic disciplines within the Sixth Form.
University Preparation
The pathway includes structured preparation for applications to leading universities, including institutions such as the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, as well as a wide range of esteemed destinations.
Support includes:
Our aim is to ensure that talented students are equipped not only to apply successfully, but to thrive in demanding academic environments.
Widening Access & Bursaries
Means-tested bursaries of up to 100% of fees are available for eligible families. Selection will consider predicted GCSE performance, academic references and interview, with a focus on intellectual curiosity, commitment and readiness for academic stretch.
Who Should Apply?
This pathway is designed for students who:
- Are predicted high GCSE grades (typically 8/9)
- Demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for humanities subjects
- Enjoy reading, discussion and independent thought
- Aspire to study competitive humanities courses at university
We welcome applications from internal students and external candidates alike.
Register Your Interest
Applications for September 2026 entry are now open.
To learn more about the Exceptional Talent Humanities Pathway, including admissions timelines and bursary information, please contact our admissions team on admissions@stbenedicts.org.uk or via 020 8862 2254
We look forward to welcoming the first cohort of Exceptional Talent Humanities students in September 2026 and to seeing the contribution they will make to the academic life of the School.