Couple launch university bursaries for Brockenhurst College students

A RETIRED Lyndhurst couple were inspired by an A&T article to pledge tens of thousands of pounds for Brockenhurst College bursaries to help talented students overcome financial hardship and go to university.

John and Marion Greenwood decided to set up the fund to help less well-off youngsters after reading about the college’s awards for science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.

The couple will create the annual Brockenhurst College bursaries to cover university tuition fees for a Brockenhurst student facing financial hardship but who excels in STEM subjects and wants to follow through with a three-year BA or BSc degree.

STEM subjects and advancement through education are particularly close to the Greenwoods’ hearts.

John worked in the engineering, chemical and textile industries during his productive and highly-successful career.

Marion worked with children in schools and became increasingly concerned that many promising youngsters were unable to fulfil their potential due to financial constraints.

John said: “We’re in the privileged position of being able to help young people realise their potential by gaining a university education, so why wouldn’t we want to make that difference?

“Financial pressures on students are greater than ever these days, and the idea a future industry leader could have their hopes dashed at such a young age because of money seems manifestly unjust.

“Marion and I have been greatly impressed by the calibre of teaching and facilities at Brockenhurst College whose STEM students can now apply to benefit even more going forward thanks to the Greenwood Bursary.”

In England, tuition fees are capped at £9,250 a year for UK students, with around 76% of all institutions charging the full amount in 2015/16. The tuition fees bill for a three-year degree course is £27,750.

The bursary aims to ensure that talented and hardworking students from each future academic year benefit from a university education they may not receive otherwise.

To be eligible, students must be studying sixth form STEM subjects and show they face financial hardship before they may be chosen by a bursary selection panel to receive the award.

The successful applicants under the new bursaries for Brockenhurst College students will have their whole undergraduate university tuition fees paid.

Principal Di Roberts said: “We are extremely grateful for the Greenwoods’ generosity and delighted they share our enthusiasm for quality learning opportunities.

“The Greenwood Bursary will undoubtedly make a significant positive difference to the prospects of students aiming for a successful career in the STEM sector in the years ahead.”