Design and Technology pupils, Oliver Starling (Ldr), Jack Townend (Sc), Thomas Kirkup (Sc), Lucas Podmore (Ldr) and Henry Orlebar (L) have each been awarded a much sought-after Arkwright Engineering Scholarship, which identifies them as some of the country’s future leaders in engineering and related areas of design.
Scholars are selected for their potential as future engineering leaders by assessment of their academic, practical and leadership skills in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) through a rigorous process comprising: an application form and a teacher’s supporting reference; a two-hour aptitude exam; a university-based interview. The scholarships support pupils through their Sixth Form studies and encourage them into top universities or higher apprenticeships.
Ollie, whose scholarship is sponsored by Sir William Lyon’s Charitable Trust, is working on ideas for a project using renewable energy.
Jack’s scholarship is sponsored by The Emmott Foundation. His recent DT project was a longboard with a specialised braking system, while during a work experience opportunity over the summer Jack researched and designed a component for a particle accelerator. He hopes to study either mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering.
Tom has plans for a 1970s speedboat restoration project and would like to restore the engine for his EPQ project. His scholarship is sponsored by The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board.
Lucas hopes to pursue a career in energy engineering and is currently working on a parabolic trough. His scholarship is sponsored by The National Grid.
Henry’s scholarship is sponsored by The Nuclear Institute. In his spare time, he is currently restoring a Citroen 2CV6 1989, and hopes to study engineering at university.
The scholarships consist of an annual financial award to each Scholar and their school, and a range of enrichment activities, such as mentoring and industry visits. Arkwright Engineering Scholarships are highly regarded by universities and industry and are one of the most prestigious accolades that a talented Sixth Form pupil can achieve.
The awards will be formally presented to the pupils at a ceremony supported by The Institution of Engineering and Technology later in the year.