Bursaries

Means-tested Osborne Bursaries from September 2026. These means-tested bursaries will be available to Isle of Wight familities applying for places in Reception, for children aged four to five and Key Stage 1, covering Years 1 and 2, typically for children aged five to seven.

Osborne Bursaries

Introducing the OSBORNE Bursaries: Opening the Door to an Outstanding Education

There is no question, here on the Isle of Wight as in the country as a whole, access to high-quality education is becoming an increasing concern for parents. Quality of secondary education and behavioural issues in school, Government changes affecting independent schools, the rising cost of living and on the Isle of Wight specifically the possible closure of local primary schools are leaving many families with fewer choices.

We believe it is time for one of the Island’s leading schools to come to their aid.

An outstanding education should not be limited to those who can afford it.

Priory School of Our Lady of Walsingham has a remarkable heritage. The school is housed in the historic building commissioned by Queen Victoria in 1864 and has ensured continuing education on this historic site since that time.

Today, Priory School combines that unique heritage with an exceptional modern education. Our pastoral care has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted, while more than 90% of GCSE results are awarded at grades 9 – 4.

Who are the Osborne Bursaries for?

Our small class sizes allow every child to be known, supported and encouraged as an individual. With more focused attention from teachers, children can build confidence, develop strong foundations and flourish both academically and personally.

To ensure that more Island children can benefit from this education, Priory School is introducing, in line with its heritage and in honour of the site on the island that was the royal summer palace, Osborne Bursaries from September 2026.

These means-tested bursaries will be available to Isle of Wight families applying for places in:

Reception, for children aged four to five
Key Stage 1, covering Years 1 and 2, typically for children aged five to seven

A limited number of bursary-supported places will be available, and early applications are strongly encouraged.

Visit our school

Families are warmly invited to visit the school, meet our team, tour our historic setting and begin the assessment process ahead of September 2026.

Apply now for September 2026 entry

Applicants should contact the School Office and the process begins with a tour of the school and a meeting with staff to explore next steps. Should the application proceed, evidence of financial need is required; and a home visit may be required.

We are open on Monday – Friday at 10:00 to 15:00 during school holidays.

Priory School of Our Lady of Walsingham

Beatrice Avenue
Whippingham
Isle of Wight
PO32 6LP

Tel: 01983 861 222

Email : mail@prioryschool.org.uk

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will a tour and visit take?

Best to leave an hour with 30 minutes for the tour and 30 minutes minimum for meeting with staff.

Is the school open in the holidays?

Yes, the office is staffed 10 am – 3 pm every day except weekend. Tutors will come in for a visit and the tour.

What is the average Bursary?

There is no average – bursaries are means-tested, that is based on affordability so vary family to family.

Is there car parking on site?

Yes the school has a car park in the grounds – entrance of Beatrice Avenue.

Must a child be academic to gain an Osborne Bursary?

What we ask is a willingness to learn and be part of the school community.