The Pennthorpe Prodigy Programme
The Pennthorpe Prodigy Programme is a tailored programme specifically designed for children in Year 3 to Year 8 who are particularly gifted or talented in a specific subject or area.
At Pennthorpe, we are incredibly proud and fortunate to celebrate an array of talent among our students. On the basis of this, we are delighted to offer a programme that provides a tailored and bespoke experience, extending the current curriculum to meet the unique needs and abilities of each child. Our commitment to nurturing individual strengths ensures that every student can flourish and achieve their full potential in a supportive and enriching environment.
A TAILORED
Programme
Pennthorpe Prodigy Pupils will be working considerably above the age expected level for the subject on a consistent and regular basis (‘Exceptional’ Attainment Grades). They will also demonstrate consistently exceptional effort towards the relevant subject/s (‘Exceptional’ Approach to Learning Grades) and be a dedicated role model to younger pupils and peers in the subject (both in and outside of school).
The 2024-25 Prodigy Programme Information Booklet will be available in the Autumn Term 2025, which will include details of the Application Process, the Observational Stage, Assessment Criteria, the Reviewing of Prodigy Pupils and information for current Award and Scholarship holders and further subject specific provisions. In the meantime, for all subject-specific enquiries please contact the relevant Heads of Department. For all general enquires regarding the Prodigy Programme, please contact Jon Marler directly.
Our Pennthorpe Prodigy Programme opens the door to an extraordinary adventure for our most gifted learners. It is a celebration of their unique brilliance and an investment in the passions that make them who they are. Through this one‑of‑a‑kind initiative, we offer a bespoke curriculum designed to inspire, challenge and nurture each child far beyond our already exceptional skills‑based learning environment. With every opportunity carefully shaped around their individual strengths, our Prodigies are encouraged to dream boldly, explore deeply and grow with confidence. This programme does not just support their talents, it empowers them to flourish, laying the foundations for a future filled with possibility, purpose and success.Jon Marler, Head of School
Purpose
Launched in 2024, the Pennthorpe Prodigy Programme is an exciting new initiative, built on the successful framework established by both the historic Braby Scholarship and the Pennthorpe Academic Scholarship Programme. The Prodigy Programme reflects on the elements that have proven to excel our students further; focusing on the strengths and unique talents that drive their success. By honing in on these plus points, we aim to provide an enriched, tailored experience that empowers our students to achieve even greater heights.
To further stretch, challenge and cultivate the passions and talents of the participating children
Pupils who demonstrate exceptional aptitude or talent in a specific discipline, performing significantly beyond age-appropriate standards and serving as exemplars in their field of expertise
Through a breadth of enrichment opportunities in addition to the Pennthorpe Curriculum
All Pennthorpe Prodigies will be invited on at least one trip, one subject lunch with fellow Prodigies and one guest speaker visit each year, along with a range of additional Enrichment Sessions and other opportunities. This structure will ensure consistent opportunities for personal growth and development on the focused subject/s.
AVAILABLE PRODIGY PROGRAMMES
English, Maths, Science, Humanities & MFL
Invitation to all academic subject enrichment sessions. Year appropriate sessions which will include ‘Rudgwick Remembers’, The Annual Balloon Debate, Visiting Speaker and Q&A Sessions, Half Termly Community Role Model Sessions and more.
Invitation to all academic subject enrichment sessions. Year appropriate sessions which will include visiting artists, Q&A workshops, Senior School Masterclass Sessions, Prodigy Experience Trips, additional Portfolio support sessions and more.
Invitation to all academic subject enrichment sessions. Year appropriate sessions which will include half termly STEAM Exploration and Experience Sessions, Digital Learning Prodigy Trips, Senior School Digital Learning workshops, visiting speaker Q&A and Annual Prodigy Lunch.
Drama and Music
Invitation to all academic subject enrichment sessions. Year appropriate sessions which will include Enrichment Sessions, Community Role Model Sessions, Prodigy Players’ Production, Invitations to Senior School Workshops, Annual Performing Arts Prodigy Trip and visiting speaker sessions.
Invitation to all academic subject enrichment sessions. Year appropriate sessions which will include Enrichment Sessions, Morning Scholarship Preparation Sessions, Movement Strength and Conditioning Training, Senior School Masterclass Opportunities, Annual Sports Prodigy Trip and visiting speaker sessions.
How to apply
The promotion of attitude and engagement, not just natural talent; the commitment to independence and creativity via the video application; the incentive for ongoing and consistent habit-forming through observation phase; and the expectation that pupils should not wait to be told, but should take the initiative to go above and beyond outside of the classroom is what makes the Prodigy Programme so special. Crucially, what Pennthorpe is doing is making learning high status, and i'm really impressed with this thorough programme.Mr Dominic Mott, Head of College, Hurst
