College fund makes a difference

A FUND started by Priestley College has helped more than 124 young people to pursue their educational dreams and ambitions.
Since September the Priestley Education and Training Trust (PETT) has provided bursaries worth £7,646 to 73 students to help them pay for transport, trips, materials and equipment.
One student with cerebral palsy received a donation to help pay for a specialist wheelchair that enables him to play competitive basketball.
“As a college this is something of which we are very proud and delighted to see the difference it is making to the lives of so many young people,” said Matthew Grant, Priestley’s Deputy Principal and Chairman of PETT.
“We estimate that around 150 young people will benefit each year and that has been made possible thanks to the support of parents and local businesses.”
Two scholarship awards have gone to students who are continuing their education at locations where they do not attract any funding via the Student Loan Company, including some of the country’s leading drama colleges.
A further three scholarships have gone to current students who will continue to receive support until they finish their courses at Priestley College assuming they meet requirements for progress and attendance.
PETT has also rewarded 48 past students for their achievements – either academically or in their contribution to college life – to the value of £4,000.
“The primary objective is to encourage, assist and enable young learners in their educational aims and objectives,” said Matthew.
“We are helping those who need support, but also recognising high achievers who have made a difference to college life.”
Many parents have made donations to the registered charity as their children apply for places at Priestley after the college waived its application fee.
Others have made Gift Aid donations while many charity events – most staged by students and tutors – are held throughout the year in college.
An Amazon link on the college website ensures a donation is made to PETT whenever someone clicks through and buys from the online store.
Matthew said the support of parents had been vital in the success of PETT in its first full year.
“So many parents have supported the fund and we have to thank them on behalf of all the students who have benefitted so far,” he said.
*If you are able to support PETT in some way – or would like to make a donation – please call Matthew Grant or the charity’s secretary Peter McMellon on 01925 415415.