We’re celebrating Engineering degree apprentice George who has been accepted for the Whitworth Scholarship Award! We caught up with him to find out all about this impressive achievement!
George started by explaining the history of the scholarship: “The Whitworth Scholarship is named after Sir Joseph Whitworth, a Victorian era engineer & entrepreneur ranking alongside great men such as George Stephenson, and Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Sir Joseph Whitworth’s legacy lives on as his trust still funds the scholarship.
“The Scholarship is used to support the development of outstanding young engineers, who have excellent academic and practical skills and the qualities needed to succeed in industry, who are wishing to embark, or have already commenced on an engineering degree-level programme of any engineering discipline.”
What has being accepted for the Whitworth Scholarship Award meant to you?
This has been a fantastic achievement as an engineer I understand our work is mostly teamwork. But this award and the EngTech of the year I was awarded in the previous year has really instilled a belief in myself as a young professional. I am ready to inspire others to aim high and achieve lofty goals.
What benefits will the Whitworth Scholarship give you?
There are social benefits which access to the Whitworth society grants to previous Whitworth Society award holders and scholars. There are events like talks, tours and networking events.
There is a financial benefit of £3,000 a year for apprentices, more for full time students. I can also continue the scholarship to pay towards further postgraduate study.
How would you describe your time studying at UCW?
I would describe my time studying at UCW as life changing. Coming from my level 3 apprenticeship at Weston College, I have come on leaps and bounds not just in my engineering ability but also my professionalism.
What is your favourite memory from your time at UCW?
Working with Thanos and Andreas, both keen academics within Weston, was a key driver in those early days. Especially when all those around me were much younger.
How have you made use of the West of England Institute of Technology facilities at UCW?
Early in the apprenticeship we used the facilities whilst at the South West Skills Centre. It helped to build our hand skills in the Weston Workshop. We also developed our knowledge of carbon fibre at Southwest Skills. Later on we attended lectures within the GKN building, the Global Technology Centre.
This impressive achievement forms part of the Engineering Careers Excellence Hub. University Centre Weston’s Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners’ careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.
A big thank you to George for catching up with us! He added: “I love telling students, parents and carers how important these opportunities are. Thank you for all you do for our young workers and anyone wanting to do a career change.”
Find out more about our Engineering Degree Apprenticeships by clicking here!
