We understand that even when armed with skills, aspirations and self-belief, there will still be barriers to young people achieving their dreams, that’s why we launched our Next Steps Bursary programme. The programme, consisting of both financial and valuable additional support ,including academic and career mentoring, internships, networking opportunities and pastoral support, will help our awardees overcome challenges as they take their next steps beyond school into further education and towards the careers to which they aspire. 

Having enough [money] to support myself due to the wonderful people at the Aldridge Foundation has given me peace of mind, as long as I stick to my budget, there is less stress with regards to money. Plus, the network of people that I have been fortunate to be introduced to has really helped me be confident with my career prospects, whilst allowing me to focus on my academics.

Bobbie, Next Steps Aldridge Scholar