Wilkes Education Scholarship Trust (WEST)

The Wilkes Education Scholarship Trust (WEST) is a UK-based registered charity (Charity number: 1182743) dedicated to advancing the educational opportunities and long-term employment prospects of British African Caribbean (BAC) heritage students. Established in 2020, the organisation primarily supports high-potential students from less well-off backgrounds who are undertaking full-time university-level programmes across the United Kingdom.

Mission and Objectives

WEST's central mission is to promote educational advancement among individuals of African Caribbean descent living in the UK by providing scholarship grants. The charity aims to alleviate financial barriers faced by these students in higher education, thereby fostering greater inclusion and opportunity within the academic and professional spheres.

Scholarship Program

Each academic year, WEST offers scholarship grants of up to £1,000 to eligible British African Caribbean students. The scholarships are awarded based on potential and financial need, with the charity targeting support especially toward those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Typically, the trust aims to support up to 50 students annually.

Since its inception, WEST has provided scholarships to four cohorts of recipients who have successfully graduated, with ongoing support continuing for the 2024/25 academic year.

Funding and Support

WEST operates exclusively on public generosity and does not receive government funding. It relies on donations from individuals and corporate entities to sustain its scholarship programs and other activities. The trust encourages volunteering and engagement from the community to help further its charitable objectives.

Impact

By focusing on the British African Caribbean heritage community, WEST addresses an important gap in educational support. Its scholarships help improve access to higher education and enhance life and employment outcomes for this group, contributing positively to social equity in the UK.

The Wilkes Education Scholarship Trust remains a significant advocate and benefactor for educational advancement within the British African Caribbean community, supporting talent through targeted scholarships and fostering greater inclusion in higher education and beyond.

[1] https://www.wilkestrust.org [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5133140 [3] https://www.wilkestrust.org/scholarships [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5133140/full-print [5] https://wilkeseducationfoundation.org/scholarships