Financial Assistance

Financial Assistance FAQs

• What is the Financial Assistance scheme at Cheadle Hulme School, and who does it apply to?

  Cheadle Hulme School offers a means-tested Financial Assistance scheme that provides between 10% and 100% fee remission for pupils who pass the entrance assessment but require financial support to attend. The scheme applies to eligible new applicants joining Year 7 or Year 12.

• Which year groups are eligible for financial assistance at CHS?

  Financial Assistance at Cheadle Hulme School is offered strictly to new students entering Year 7 (Senior School) and Year 12 (Sixth Form). Assistance is not available for the Junior School, mid-year transfer or other entry points.

• How is CHS financial assistance assessed?

  Financial assistance is assessed on a case-by-case basis through an independent, means-tested process conducted by Bursary Assessment Associates (BAA). Assessment evaluates total household affordability by reviewing family income, savings, investments, assets, liabilities, and monthly expenditure.

• What household income qualifies for a CHS bursary or financial assistance award?

  To typically qualify for a CHS financial assistance award, household gross annual income must be £90,000 or less (before tax). Additional indicators include owning only one mortgaged property or living in rented accommodation, with both parents working (unless prevented by illness or caring responsibilities).

• How long does a CHS Financial Assistance application take to complete?

  Completing the application form typically takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of your financial arrangements. Applicants must submit full supporting documentation (such as tax returns and bank statements) to Bursary Assessment Associates (BAA) by the published deadline.

• Is an application for Financial Assistance separate from the CHS entrance exam?

  Yes. Admissions decisions are made entirely independently of financial assistance applications. Your child is evaluated strictly on entrance assessment performance, interview, and school report. If your child meets academic standards but financial assistance is unavailable or declined, you will be offered a fee-paying place. Academic performance does not alter the percentage of financial assistance awarded.

• How are financial assistance applications assessed for separated or divorced parents?

  Both parents are required to complete a separate financial assessment unless a legal order or court arrangement specifies otherwise. Each parent’s financial details are kept strictly confidential and will never be shared with the other parent without explicit written consent.

• What happens if I cannot afford the remaining fees after a Financial Assistance award?

  Financial assistance awards represent the maximum support CHS can offer based on BAA’s assessment. Families must decide independently whether they can accommodate the remaining fee contribution. Award decisions cannot be negotiated or appealed within the same academic year.

• Does CHS provide financial support for school uniforms, devices, or trips?

  Yes. Depending on the level of the financial assistance award, additional support may be provided to assist with the costs of school uniform, required digital devices, and essential curriculum trips. Specific details of extra support are provided in your formal offer letter.

• Is a CHS Financial Assistance award guaranteed for every year my child attends?

  No. Financial assistance is reassessed annually. Parents must complete a re-assessment form each year, and the award amount may increase or decrease if household financial circumstances change. Furthermore, Governors reserve the right to reduce or withdraw funding if a student’s progress, attitude, or behaviour falls below school standards.

• Does Cheadle Hulme School offer emergency financial hardship support?

  Yes. CHS provides temporary Hardship Awards on a case-by-case basis for current families facing sudden, unforeseen financial difficulties. Priority is given to students completing public examination years (GCSE and A-Level) to ensure educational continuity. Queries should be sent to finance@chschool.co.uk.

• Will my child fit in at CHS as a Financial Assistance recipient?

  Absolutely. Around 1 in 11 students at Cheadle Hulme School currently receives financial assistance, with a target to reach 1 in 6 by 2030. Financial assistance status is completely confidential, and incoming students undergo dedicated pastoral orientation to ensure a smooth transition to Senior School.

• Do Financial Assistance awards remain confidential?

  Yes. All financial assistance applications and awards are strictly confidential. Only a minimal group of senior administrative staff are aware of recipient details.

• What is the difference between a Bursary and a Scholarship at Cheadle Hulme School?

  A Bursary (Financial Assistance) is means-tested based on household income and assets, covering up to 100% of school fees for families who need financial support.

  Pupils on the High Performance Programme are awarded purely on merit (such as exceptional academic performance, music, or sporting talent) regardless of family income, these are non-financial privileges.