There are three stages to the application starting with a formal application by the pupils; we then approach the House for a reference and then there are formal interviews with Senior staff. The interviews put a little bit more pressure on the pupils, not to intimidate them but because it is great practice. The process itself also continues to evolve; to enable a more level playing field and support neurodiversity this year we have released the interview questions in advance.
We refer to a wealth of information to take all the different aspects of a pupil’s contribution to College life into consideration: their Bradfield diploma; their contribution to community charity; their Individual Grades, Effort not Attainment to name but a few sources. We also give pupils new into the Sixth Form a fair chance by considering what they have done in their previous school.
Selection is always hard but it is about choosing the best pupil for the role and for some it will be their first interview rejection; however, learning how to learn from this experience is obviously important. We are also conscious that with so many pupils volunteering to take on leadership roles we have a demand that we need to meet. We are keen that those seeking an opportunity can contribute in a meaningful way.
In recent years we have increased the in-House responsibility options to meet this demand. A great example of this would be the House Sustainability Prefect, who reports into the Head of House but also to the JCR Sustainability Prefects. These College wide deeper networks enable real responsibility to be shared and valid participation and conversations about the roles on offer are ongoing.
