The Sir Thomas White Charity donates £150K to fund University Scholarships

The Sir Thomas White Charity, an historic Northampton-based organisation supports young people in their education and training aspirations .

With Government-Matched funding (which pays an additional 50p for every £1 of donation to the University made before 31 July 2011), the final contribution amounts to £150,000.

Speaking at an informal presentation ceremony with Professor Nick Petford, Vice Chancellor of The University of Northampton and colleagues, Tim Hadland, Chair of Trustees for the Charity, commented:

“Our aim has always been to support young people to obtain the best future opportunities available to them. The Sir Thomas White Scholarship at The University of Northampton will be open to full-time undergraduate students who have lived in the Borough of Northamptonshire for at least five years. The scholarships will provide up to £1,500 in support of their studies.

“We are very pleased to be working with the University, which is also dedicated to supporting young people amongst its student body. This will be the beginning of a long-term relationship between our organisations.”

Tim Hadland

The origins of the Foundation go back to Sir Thomas White himself, who was born in Reading in 1492. The son of a clothier, he worked extensively in the clothing industry and gave benevolently to education throughout his life.

Following his death on 12 February 1567 Sir Thomas’ estate bequeathed a small fortune to buy land. Profits from renting this went towards helping young men in trade across Northampton, Leicester, Coventry, Nottingham and Warwick.

Vice Chancellor Professor Nick Petford added:

“The University of Northampton would like to offer a massive thank you to The Sir Thomas White Charity. Their gift will contribute hugely towards supporting the future of our students.”

Professor Nick Petford