The Arkwright Scholarships Trust has made its 2012 award of scholarships for aspiring leaders in engineering. 335 A level scholarships and four undergraduate scholarships were awarded – the largest ever annual number.
Scholars received their awards at prestigious Ceremonies hosted by The Institution of Engineering and Technology in London and Glasgow. The scholarships were awarded to the new scholars by Sir John Armitt FREng, chairman of the Olympic Delivery Authority,
Dervilla Mitchell FREng, director at Arup, and Professor Peter Grant FREng, Emeritus Regius professor at the University of Edinburgh.
The Scholarships support students through their sixth form studies and encourage them into top universities and higher apprenticeship schemes. Scholars are selected following a rigorous process comprising: an assessed application form with teacher’s reference; a two hour aptitude exam; and a university-based interview.
Arkwright Engineering Scholarships consist of an annual financial award to the scholar and to his/her school, and a range of enrichment activities, such as mentoring and industry visits, that enhance a scholar’s experience of engineering in a real-world context. The
Scholarships are highly regarded by universities and industry and help to create a pipeline of top talent into the engineering profession.
This year’s 335 A level Scholars come from across the UK, from the west coast of Scotland to Jersey. 27% of the Scholars are female.
Four undergraduate Scholarships were also awarded – valued at between £10,000 and £12,000. These are available each year exclusively to existing Arkwright sixth form scholars. The scholarships are supported by an expanding group of companies, professional institutions, trade associations, the armed services, charitable trusts and personal donors. Sir John Armitt said “It has been my pleasure to present these scholarships today to such a dynamic group of young people. The London 2012 facilities have reminded us all that engineering, often behind the scenes, touches all aspects of our lives. I am delighted that students of the calibre of these Arkwright scholars are choosing to apply their talents into such a rewarding area of industry.”
Dervilla Mitchell said: “Arup, like so many other organisations, are constantly seeking to engage with the very best talent who will be the future of our firms and our sector overall. Arkwright Scholars really help to fill the UK talent pipeline and it has been a fantastic experience to engage with so many of them here today.”
Professor Peter Grant said: “”The University of Edinburgh, and other UK universities, offer a world-class education in engineering. We need to attract the highest calibre of talent, from all backgrounds, to ensure that our universities continue to produce the best professional engineers of tomorrow. I am delighted to award these Arkwright’s engineering scholarships which identify high-ability school pupils who have a serious interest in studying engineering.”
Arkwright’s national director, Dr Martin Thomas, commented: “These awards ceremonies represent the pinnacle of the Arkwright year. It has been fantastic to meet the new scholars and to hear of their personal achievements. It has also been incredibly rewarding to see our
alumni return to the awards ceremony to demonstrate their successful careers to the new scholars. They are the proof that Arkwright has an impact on these young people’s lives”.
