The prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarships are awarded to the most talented STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) students in UK schools, and support high-potential young people to study engineering. Hilary and Vanessa have recently been selected as Arkwright Scholars and were presented with their Awards at a ceremony in London, supported by the Institution of Engineering and Technology, and themed around the Built Environment, supported by Principal Awards Ceremony Sponsors, Arup. This year’s Scholars come from all educational backgrounds across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and a growing number of British Overseas Schools.

Scholars are selected for their potential as future engineering leaders by having  their academic, practical and leadership skills in STEM assessed. These are gauged through a rigorous

selection process comprising of an assessed application form, including a teacher’s reference, a two-hour problem-solving aptitude exam, and a university-based interview. The Scholarships support students through their sixth form studies and encourage them to apply for top universities or higher apprenticeships.

Dr Kevin P Stenson, Interim CEO of The Arkwright Scholarships Trust, and CEO of sister charity The Smallpeice Trust, said: "An impressive 1,594 students applied to be an Arkwright Engineering Scholar in 2017 and we are delighted to have been able to present a total of 425 students with invaluable scholarships. Each of this year’s scholars is incredibly talented and we hope that their Arkwright Engineering Scholarship will mark the first step in a long and successful career in engineering."

Nic Merridew, Director, Arup said “Congratulations to all this year's new Arkwright Scholars. It was inspiring to meet so many talented young people and I was blown away by what they have achieved already. Doubtless there are many future leaders in engineering within these scholars. As we increasingly rely on automation and digital technology, we will need these scholars’ enthusiasm, innovation and engineering invention to meet the exciting challenges ahead.”

The Scholarships consist of an annual financial award to each Scholar and to his/her school, and enrichment activities such as mentoring and industry visits that enhance a Scholar's experience of engineering in a real-world context. Arkwright Engineering Scholarships are highly regarded by university admission tutors and industry recruiters and are one of the most prestigious accolades that a talented sixth form student can receive.

 

The Scholarships are supported by more than 200 different sponsoring organisations: commercial and industrial companies, industry regulators, Government organisations, Universities, Professional Institutions, Trade Associations, Training Boards, Livery Companies, all three Armed Services, Charitable Trusts, personal donors and Schools.