£500 BURSARIES TO SUPPORT FUTURE SOCIAL WORKERS, YOUTH WORKERS AND FASHION DESIGNERS
The next generation of social workers, youth workers and fashion designers could be among those to benefit from £500 bursaries at Birmingham City University (BCU), helping them overcome financial barriers and make the most of their university experience.
The George Fentham Opportunity Fund will provide one-off bursaries to eligible undergraduate students during the 2026/27 academic year, supporting those studying a range of subjects.
Eligible courses include Education Studies, Social Work, Working with Children, Young People and Families, Youth Work and Communities, Early Childhood Studies, Fashion Design, Fashion Business and Promotion, and Textile Design.
The funding can help students cover essential costs associated with university life, including IT equipment, learning materials, travel and placement expenses, as well as opportunities that support their professional development.
Robin Leonard, Director of Development at BCU, said: “The George Fentham Opportunity Fund is about ensuring that talented students are not held back by financial barriers as they work towards careers that make a real difference to society.
“Whether they aspire to support vulnerable children and families, strengthen communities through youth work, or build creative careers in fashion and textile design, these students have the potential to shape lives and contribute positively to the world around them.
“For many students, even relatively modest costs can create real challenges. These bursaries provide practical support at a critical point in their university journey, helping them focus on developing their skills, gaining valuable experience and achieving their ambitions.”
The fund is designed to support courses that make a significant contribution to the fabric of Birmingham, helping develop graduates who can make a positive difference to society and their communities.
Fashion-related courses have also been selected in recognition of George Fentham’s early career as a mercer, working with fabrics.
The fund is also supporting students on BSc Nursing courses who are experiencing financial hardship by providing clinical shoes needed to complete practical training and placements.
This support will be available to students across both the September 2026 and January 2027 intakes, helping ensure they have the essential footwear required for their clinical learning.
A successful businessman and landowner born in Hampton-in-Arden in 1630, George Fentham built his fortune in Birmingham and recognised the hardship experienced by people in the city.
In his will, drawn up in 1690 before his death in 1698, Fentham set aside part of his estate to support the poor and provide education for disadvantaged children in Birmingham.
His bequest helped establish a charitable tradition that has continued for more than 300 years, adapting to meet the changing needs of local people.
Leonard added: “We are incredibly grateful to the George Fentham Birmingham Charity for its commitment to widening opportunity.
“Their funding reflects a shared belief that potential should never be limited by circumstance, and that investing in students today creates lasting benefits for communities tomorrow.”
Students can find full eligibility criteria and further information about the George Fentham Opportunity Fund on the BCU website. Click here to find out more.