Investing in Futures: Scholarship provides financial boost for students’ career aspirations

Six Hyndburn students have been rewarded for their commitment to, and passion for, their studies.

The students, who attended Accrington and Rossendale College (ARC) and Nelson and Colne College (NCC), are successful applicants of the Pilkington Scholarship fund – providing a welcome cash boost to support them in pursuing their dream careers.

The fund, established in 1929, provides scholarships or grants for those aged 25 or under, who live within Hyndburn and are continuing their education through university level study. 

Awards were given for entries that demonstrate excellence, endeavour, greatest contribution, overcoming greatest obstacles and progress, following nominations for their tutors.

Four students who studied a NCFE CACHE Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care were the first to benefit.

Declan Bloomer, from Clayton-le-Moors, was nominated by tutor Cheri Fenwick.

She said: “Declan was a deserving candidate for the greatest achievement award. His outstanding academic achievements, successful completion of the Care Certificate, active involvement in extracurricular activities, and his pursuit of higher education all exemplify his commitment, dedication, and potential to make a significant impact in the field of healthcare and beyond.”

Declan has gone on to study Nutritional Science at Edge Hill University.

Cheri also nominated Halima Nawaz, from Accrington.

“Halima’s outstanding academic performance, work experience at esteemed healthcare institutions, and active participation in extracurricular activities made her an exceptional candidate for the Excellence award. 

“Her achievements, dedication, and potential for success in the field of children’s nursing – which she is studying Salford University – set her apart from her peers and made her a deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition.” 

Jessica McLoughlin, from Accrington, also benefitted from the fund.

Her entry said: “Jessica’s consistently high grades, active participation in extracurricular activities, and completion of the work placement made her an ideal candidate for the Endeavor Award. Her outstanding achievements, dedication, and passion for helping others positioned her as an exemplary individual deserving of recognition and support.”

Katelyn Hodgkinson, from Accrington, was praised for “consistent progress in academic studies, coupled with her excellent work experience reports and her decision to study Adult Nursing at UCLAN.”

NCC A Level student, Charlie Boyer, from Accrington, was nominated by his tutor Kat Atherton for overcoming obstacles.

Charlie has worked incredibly hard over the past two years during his A Levels, showing excellent resilience and true grit and determination after stepping up to the challenge during the transition from GCSEs.

Kat said: “Charlie showed great resilience in the face of some challenges in year 1. He remained committed, putting in extra effort by actively participating in additional workshops for support.”

Charlie is now studying Sports Journalism at UCLAN.

Joshua Baynes, from Accrington, studied a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science at ARC.

His nomination, submitted by tutor Michael Worthington, said: “Josh’s nomination for the category of Excellence was testament to his unwavering dedication, academic achievements, exceptional work experience, and relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth.”

Josh is now studying Teacher Training at Edge Hill University and plans to become a PE Teacher.

The Pilkington Scholarship fund is one of the many ways that Accrington & Rossendale and Nelson & Colne College support learners to succeed and follow their dream career path. The courses are designed to teach technical and academic skills, supporting the people of Hyndburn to reach high value careers, and to meet the skills needs of regional employers.

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