Open Awards Bursary Guidance revised July 2022
Introduction
Open Awards is a registered charity and we seek to use our skills, experience and qualifications to promote learning to individuals. In 2019, we decided to change the way we offer Bursaries as we would like them to form a legacy within our providers and create real impact. In offering bursaries we are seeking to address barriers that may prevent people from accessing or remaining within training/further education and achieving their full potential.
Our Vision is that Open Awards bursaries allow our providers to better support their learners and enable them to achieve their potential. Each year, we will choose a theme and seek applications that look for ways to tackle that issue.
The theme for this year is ‘Projects that Improve the Mental Health of Learners'.
What can I apply for funding for?
Open Awards will decide on priorities for applications each year, taking into account the strategic objectives of the organisation, emerging priorities or issues that affect learners. Organisations can then apply for funding (below) for a specific project or equipment or additional resource that meets that priority.
How much can I apply for?
For 2022 the bursary can be for up to £1000 and 3 awards will be made.
Am I eligible for a Bursary?
The Bursary is open to all providers using Open Awards products.
You must have the support of a member of your Senior Leadership team to apply for a bursary.
By applying for a bursary you are consenting to being included in publicity for Open Awards, where this is required and to being contacted about your future progress, if necessary. This will include an article written by you on the impact of the award and what it has achieved and this may be included in Open Awards' Impact Reports and promotional material. We will discuss this with the successful applicant in more detail and provide assistance if required.
You will be required to complete an Impact Report and we will agree with you when is the best time to do this.
Completing the Application Form
You must make sure that all parts of the form are completed.
Please give as much detail as possible about why you need the bursary, as this will help us to understand evaluate your application. Use an additional sheet if necessary. There is a word count limit of around 500 words for this section.
Your college/training provider must complete and stamp the final section of the form and it must be signed by a member of the Senior Leadership team.
Assessment of Applications
A sub-committee of the Open Awards Board will decide which application can be granted. We will prioritise applications according to the information provided by each applicant and the fit with our objectives.
In some cases further information may be sought.
All decisions are final and there is no right of appeal, however there is no limit on the amount of times an organisation may apply for a bursary in different years. Please note that Open Awards will not enter into discussions about their decisions once they have been made.
Applications are currently assessed once a year.
Deadline for Applications – 30th July 2022.
Applicants will be informed of decisions as soon as possible after the deadline.
How to Apply
Complete the application form and send it to:
Heather Akehurst
Chief Executive
Open Awards