Westminster School’s newly-elected King’s Scholars donned their black robes and collared shirts for their induction by the Dean in Westminster Abbey, with proud parents looking on.
Part of being a King’s Scholar at Westminster is becoming immersed in the School’s rich historical traditions. As generations of Scholars have done before them, this year’s cohort experienced the first of these traditions during their induction ceremony in Westminster Abbey.
Processing through Westminster Abbey
The 12 Scholars, Alex, Aryan, Daniel, Drishaan, Fatima, George, Jane, Johnny, Liam, Lucas, Melody and Saam, processed through the Abbey to be admitted by the Dean to membership of the Collegiate Church of St Peter in Westminster. Each pupil ascended the Sacrarium steps, bowed to the Dean, presented their credentials and knelt before being sworn in through Latin prayer and formally gowned. The ceremony marked the beginning of their official role as King’s Scholars at Westminster School.
The role of the King’s Scholar
To be a King’s Scholar is to hold one of Westminster School’s highest academic honours and to embody the School’s ethos of fostering ‘enquiring, independent and generous minds’. King’s Scholars are part of a community of like-minded pupils, living together in College, the School’s historic boarding house for Scholars in Central London.
The King’s Scholarship was established by Henry VIII and reaffirmed by Elizabeth I in 1560, and the Scholars’ connection with the Royal Family continues to this day. King’s Scholars attend special services in Westminster Abbey at the Dean’s invitation and undertake ceremonial duties associated with both the Abbey and the Crown. They have reserved seats in the Quire and enjoy the privilege of attending coronations and other significant state occasions.
How to become a King’s Scholar
Westminster School has 48 King’s Scholars in total, with up to 12 elected each year. Typically, up to eight King’s Scholarships are awarded at 13+ and up to four at 16+ to pupils joining Westminster School through its competitive admissions process. To be considered for a 13+ King’s Scholarship, Year 8 pupils sit Westminster’s scholarship examination, known as The Challenge. For Scholarships awarded at 16+, selection is based on overall performance in the Sixth Form Entrance Examinations and interviews.
Over the next two years, or five years in the case of those who joined at 13+, this year’s King’s Scholars will continue to develop the high level of learning that defines their post and uphold the proud scholarly traditions of the School. As members of a unique community with deep historical ties to Westminster Abbey, they will play their part in a legacy that has endured for centuries, while serving as an inspiration to prospective pupils who aspire to follow in their footsteps.
To learn more about King’s Scholarships and Westminster School admissions, including key entry requirements and the application process, visit the Admissions section of the School website.
