“We’re looking for young people who are actively involved in their communities and social justice causes,” said high school principal Heather Blanckensee.
“We (have) put the emphasis on taking real care of each other as part of our school culture for a long time, and we want to find new and meaningful ways to reinforce that. The scholarship is just that.”
Pupils in Grades 7, 8 and 9 can apply for the scholarship, which covers full high school fees at the college. Sacred Heart is known for its high academic standards across the humanities and the sciences.
“Short-listed candidates will have to write our normal mathematics and English entrance examinations, but the primary criteria for this scholarship is demonstrable evidence of the applicant’s commitment to social good, neighbourliness, volunteer work and similar active citizenship,” said Blanckensee.
College head Colin Northmore said the scholarship aligned itself with South Africans who went beyond the call of duty to address the complex challenges faced by the country.
“Citizens who do more than talk about the difficulties faced by many people in this country are the right kind of potential leaders for South Africa. Our college does not pay lip service to the idea of active citizenship,” he said.
Northmore said the scholarship enabled the college to show its commitment in a way that made a tangible difference.
“The idea is to encourage our existing and potential new pupils to understand that an education at the college doesn’t begin and end with strong academics, but is also a serious commitment to our society,” he said.
Pupils, parents and guardians can find out more about the scholarship, as well as application forms on the college website. The deadline for applications is 30 September.
Details: 011-648-5247; www.sacredheart.co.za
