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High Performance Programmes

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Recognising and nuturing exceptional potential

At CHS, we believe in recognising and nurturing exceptional potential across our academic, co-curricular and creative programmes. 

Our High Performance Programmes (HPP) and Emerging Creative Talent Programmes (ECTP) are designed for pupils who show outstanding ability, dedication and drive in their chosen area. These programmes provide additional support, opportunities and mentoring to help pupils excel. 

Participation is by invitation or application and, while there is no fee remission, places on these programmes are seen as a significant accolade within the CHS community.

Sport High Performance

HPP: Sport

Our unique programme supports pupil-athletes who have the potential to perform at Regional and National level sport. We look for athletes who have the potential to succeed in sport, performing above their peer group in at least one of their chosen disciplines. 

Support includes strength and conditioning, load management, injury prevention and rehabilitation, academic monitoring and mentoring to embed our Waconian Values. With access to expertise from professional sports teams, universities, governing bodies, and our CHS network, each athlete follows a personalised, manageable programme aimed at maximising performance and wellbeing.

Counting the steps to CHS Success

Music High Performance

HPP: Music

For talented young musicians, the Music HPP provides professional-level support to help them reach their full potential. Successful applicants receive funded tuition for one instrument or voice, delivered by our Visiting Music Teachers, alongside opportunities to attend professional concerts, visit the Royal Northern College of Music, and take part in workshops on performance skills, careers, and stagecraft. 

Typically applicants would be working around a Grade 3 or 4 standard at Year 6 or a Grade 7 or 8 standard at Year 11.

Pupils are expected to contribute fully to CHS ensembles and demonstrate steady progress. Whether already performing at the required grades or showing potential, including for “endangered” instruments such as oboe, bassoon, or double bass, the programme is a unique opportunity for talented musicians.

Academic High Performance

HPP: Academic

For our most academically able pupils, the Academic HPP offers tailored enrichment to stretch and challenge thinking. Pupils benefit from exclusive CHScholars Form Time each cycle, personalised mentoring from senior academic staff, and opportunities to take part in competitions, specialist talks, and events beyond CHS.

Selection in Year 7 is based on Entrance Examination results, interviews, and school reports, with continued participation reviewed annually.

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Emerging Creative Talent in Drama and Art

ECTP: Drama & Art

The ECTP in Art and Drama welcomes pupils with a genuine passion for the creative arts. Running in Years 7 and 8, the programme includes co-curricular activities, specialist workshops, and masterclasses, with an expectation of commitment beyond the classroom.

Those who excel may be invited to audition for a place on a High Performance Programme in Art or Drama from Year 9, further developing their creative skills and experience.

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High Performance and Emerging Creative Talent: FAQs

  • How do you apply for the HPP or ECTP programmes?

    For the Academic HPP, around 12 pupils are invited to join in Year 7 based on their Entrance Examination results, interview and school report. We also review progress during the year and may invite pupils to join mid-year if they consistently outperform their peers.

    For Sport, Music, Drama and Art programmes, applications can be made via the relevant section of the Senior School Application Form.

  • Is there an audition for Music HPP?

    Applicants will be invited to an audition to complete a performance of their own choice (up to five minutes for Year 7 or eight minutes for Lower Sixth) which can be one longer piece or two to three shorter pieces. An accompanist can be provided if needed, and piano parts must be submitted in advance.

    The audition also includes short aural tests (pitching, melodic memory and harmonic awareness), a sight-reading test and a brief discussion about the applicant’s wider musical experience.

  • What is the assessment process for Sport HPP?

    Pupils who have expressed an interest will be assessed by CHS sports staff during the first term of Year 7, across PE, Games, co-curricular and development strength and conditioning sessions.

  • What level should my child be playing at for the Sport HPP?

    We look for athletes performing at regional level or above in at least one sport, alongside a positive attitude to learning and a commitment to our Waconian Values. Examples include:

    • Football: Manchester United Academy

       

    • Cricket: Lancashire / Cheshire County

       

    • Netball: Thunder Pathway or leading regional club

       

    • Rugby: Sale DPP or leading regional club

       

    • Hockey: Performance Centre or leading regional club

       

    • Swimming: National time or leading regional club

    The programme supports a wide range of sports and current pupils include national-level skiers and golfers.

  • If my child joins the Sport HPP, how will they balance school sport with external clubs?

    We work closely with families and external clubs to ensure each pupil’s commitments are well managed. While we expect students to represent CHS when selected, we coordinate with all parties to prioritise wellbeing and long-term progress.

  • Is there a fee remission for HPP or ECTP?

     No — there is no fee remission for a place on any High Performance or Emerging Creative Talent Programme.