Writhlington and Mendip Studio School students, Luke Nicholson and James Stewart were among the top 400 students selected nationally for prestigious Arkwright Scholarships.

Scholars are selected for their potential as future engineering leaders and students are assessed in their academic, practical and leadership skills in STEM through a rigorous

selection process. The Scholarships support students through their sixth form studies and applications to universities.

Luke Nicholson explained: “The Arkwright Scholarship has opened up a whole wealth of opportunities for me. It has made me realise my potential and given me confidence that my future lies in engineering.”

James Stewart added: “I am sponsored by Thales, an engineering and cyber-security company based in France. They provide you with a mentor who has a specialty in electronic engineering, the field I am keen to enter. Over the next twelve months, I will be working with Thales and with a professor at Birmingham University for work experience. Hopefully this will help me to refine my engineering skills and prepare me for the future. I am keen to study at a top American University before a career in engineering design.”

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

The ceremony was held at the Institute of Engineering and Technology in London.