‘Chance Of A Lifetime’ Scholarship Opportunity For Crewe & Nantwich Residents

Celebrating the launch of The Mayor’s Scholarship Fund are (left to right) Dennis Dunn, Dean of MMU Cheshire, Councillor Brian Silvester and Rob Allen, Director of Partnerships at Wulvern Housing

30th June 2009

People in Crewe and Nantwich who wish to study for a university degree but cannot afford the full cost of course fees are being offered the “chance of a lifetime” under a unique scholarship (PDF, 67KB).

Councillor Brian Silvester, Deputy Leader of Cheshire East Council, launched the Scholarship Fund as his chosen charity during his year as the last Mayor of Crewe and Nantwich.

In excess of £20,000 was raised which has been doubled to more than £40,000 following match funding by partners Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) and Wulvern Housing.

Grants are now being made available to people wishing to study for a degree at Manchester Metropolitan University’s (MMU) Crewe campus beginning September 2009.

The grant will cover up to 50 percent of the course tuition fees and educational expenses.

Successful applicants will undertake an undergraduate course of study of their choice at the campus which specialises in arts, sport science, business and management, humanities and education.

The university will also provide a Student Mentor to provide informal advice, help and guidance.

Councillor Silvester said: “The theme of my Crewe and Nantwich Mayoral Year during 2008-9 was Lifelong Learning, a cause close to my heart."

“Education can change lives for the better and I chose to launch the Scholarship Fund because I want as many as possible to have that opportunity."

“This financial assistance offers people of all ages the opportunity to realise their ambitions and fulfil their learning potential – it really is the chance of a lifetime."

“I would like to thank all those who worked so hard to raise funds for this very worthwhile cause.”

To qualify for a grant applicants must reside within the former boundaries of Crewe and Nantwich Borough and satisfy MMU’s entrance requirements."

Dennis Dunn, Dean of MMU Cheshire, said: “The University looks forward to welcoming the successful applicants for these bursaries providing, as they will, a life-changing opportunity.”

All applications will be considered by a panel comprising Councillor Silvester, Mr Dunn and Rob Allen, Director of Partnerships at Wulvern Housing.

Mr Allen said: “Wulvern is delighted to support the bursary scheme as it provides a great opportunity for those who are considering attending university a chance to fulfil their ambition.”

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview in early August.

Application forms for the Scholarship Fund are available from the university’s website. The deadline for responses is 5pm on July 27th.

Photo Caption: Celebrating the launch of The Mayor’s Scholarship Fund are (left to right) Dennis Dunn, Dean of MMU Cheshire, Councillor Brian Silvester and Rob Allen, Director of Partnerships at Wulvern Housing.