Lauren Davey

A former Christopher Whitehead Language College pupil turned trainee paramedic has thanked her friends and family for their encouragement and support as she scooped a prestigious Academic Scholarship award. 

Lauren Davey, 19, is now in the second year of her degree at the University of Worcester and has just been awarded £1,000 for academic excellence during her studies. 

“I feel extremely privileged to be awarded this scholarship,” she said. “It’s wonderful to be recognised for the hard work and dedication I’ve put in over the last year. It motivates me to keep working hard and strive for excellence in my further studies.” 

Lauren described the reaction her friends and family gave when she told them about her award: “They were very proud. This award doesn’t just reflect me, it also reflects them, and without their support throughout the year I wouldn’t have been able to achieve this.” 

Lauren said her course has exceeded her expectations: “The lecturers are very knowledgeable about their fields and their passion for the subject comes across every time. This furthers your desire to learn and grow in the field.” 

She added: “The University has so many amazing facilities to learn in alongside this and a close community that supports each other.” 

Professor Sally Moyle, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) at the University, said: “We are incredibly proud of the students who have received academic scholarships.” 

The scholarships and prizes are supported by generous philanthropists, including the University’s distinguished Honorary Fellows, local employers, and many successful graduates. 

Staff at the University have also been raising funds for scholarship and hardship support as part of the University’s two-year Anniversaries Campaign, celebrating 20 years since gaining full university status in 2005 and 80 years since being founded as an emergency teacher training college in 1946. 

Professor Moyle added: “These awards demonstrate to potential employers the outstanding achievements of our students, while providing financial support and encouragement for those who’ve earned them.”