THE independent ACS Hillingdon school, off Vine Lane, has launched a new scholarship for someone aged 16-18 to study the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.

The fully-funded scholarship award is for an academically outstanding pupil taking GCSEs this summer at a borough state school.

The IB Diploma programme is increasingly popular with 16-year-olds seeking an alternative to A-levels and is recognised as a prestigious qualification for entrance to universities in the UK, Europe and around the world.

The means-tested scholarship will fund all tuition fees for the two-year programme as well as providing assistance for other associated costs.

Linda LaPine, head of ACS Hillingdon said “We have a long history of our students achieving outstanding IB Diploma results and entering leading universities.

“The selected pupil will join our school, which already includes local students within our diverse international community. This scholarship represents a wonderful opportunity for one young person.”

Closing date for applications for the 2014/2015 academic year is March 28. Candidates can receive an application pack either by emailing scholarship@acs-schools.com or by calling Rudianne Soltis, Dean of Admissions, on 01895 818402.

More information about the application process can also be found on the website www.acs-schools.com/acs-hillingdon/scholarship