Former Bideford College Pupil Wins Academic Scholarship for Second Year Running

A former Bideford College pupil says earning a prestigious £1,000 scholarship for a second consecutive year has given her a boost in confidence.

Molly Haughton is in the third year of their Creative Writing and Illustration degree at the University and has scooped a second consecutive Academic Scholarship for producing excellent work.

“I’m really proud to have received this award for a second year,” said Molly. “It’s a reminder that I really shouldn’t doubt myself.”

She added: “I’ve been through a lot over the last few years, outside my academic life. Knowing when to take a break and when to return to something is what’s gotten me through it with the support of my family and friends.”

Molly said the time she spent at Bideford College has provided a boost in creativity and academic success.

“I can’t thank my sixth form teachers enough for their guidance,” she said. “I could always trust them to be there for me and I miss them.”

Looking back, Molly said she knew when she first got to Worcester that it was the place for her.

“I chose the University of Worcester because of the kindness, creativity and humour of everyone I met on the open day, it really made me feel at home,” she said. “My highlights at university have been in the funny moments we’ve shared as friends; they bring us all together.”

The University of Worcester has been named University of the Year for Graduate Jobs 2027 in the Daily Mail University Guide, with judges describing a performance that ‘leaves many of the Russell Group in the shade’.

The University is also this year shortlisted for the Outstanding Support for Students in the Times Higher Education Awards for the efforts of staff to raise money for student scholarships and hardship funds.

Professor David Green CBE, DL, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University, said: “Every year, thanks to the generosity of alumni, philanthropists and friends of the University, we are able to award academic scholarships to students who perform outstandingly well – typically gaining straight As across their studies. Achieving such excellent results consistently requires dedication, ability and sheer hard work.”

“All of us at the University are very proud of all our scholarship winners who come from across the range of our courses and from many backgrounds,” he added. “Every year this includes scholarship winners who are students who did not particularly excel at school but find that the intellectual and professional challenge of university combined with the expert education provided at Worcester brings out the very best in them.”