Balancing Scholarship and Performance: Nelly’s Sixth Form Journey 04 June 2026
Year 13 student Nelly has received a conditional offer to study Music at Emmanuel College, University of Cambridge with an Organ Scholarship, beginning in 2027.
Before starting her undergraduate degree, she will enjoy a sensational gap year, having been appointed Organ Scholar for 2026–27 at Portsmouth Cathedral and Portsmouth Grammar School – a highly competitive and prestigious role.
Nelly’s mother tells us about how BMS Sixth Form has shaped Nelly’s musical and academic journey.
“Since starting at BMS Sixth Form, Nelly has been given the confidence and encouragement to follow her aspirations: it has been transformational for her.
For example, in Year 12 she was able to study for diplomas in cello and piano while also being fully involved in school ensembles and productions. Being a part of these groups is something she has really enjoyed. The organ scholarship process was really rigorous, and required her to have several days of intense auditions, interviews and theory tests in September of Year 13. Nelly has always been an independent learner, but BMS really made a difference in helping her through the challenges of balancing her academic work and the hours of practice needed to prepare for such a competitive process.
We are very proud of what Nelly has achieved during her time at BMS and wish to thank the school for their support and encouragement.”
For Nelly, her organ scholarship offers her the unique opportunity to combine academic study with first-hand professional experience. She is especially drawn to the breadth of skills involved, including sight reading, transposition, conducting and musical administration, as well as developing lasting professional relationships within the musical community.
“Coming to BMS for Sixth Form was hugely influential in giving me the confidence to apply to competitive courses. The Oxbridge support programme at school gave a wonderful sense of community – fostering a culture that balanced ambition with realistic expectations, and celebrated the intrinsic rewards of the application process.”
She also highlights the consistent encouragement from her tutors and music teachers, who supported her with applications, organisation and balancing multiple commitments, alongside providing excellent teaching, thoughtful advice and generous access to practice facilities.
As Nelly now focuses on completing her A Levels, her journey illustrates how BMS Sixth Form opens doors, inspires futures and makes it happen – by offering personalised guidance, academic rigour and a supportive environment that empowers students to pursue what they love with confidence.
We wish Nelly every success in the months ahead and look forward to following her next steps.
