Peter Roberts bursary established to support Collab Group students

The Collab Group is pleased to announce the establishment of the annual Peter Roberts Collab Group Bursary: an award for outstanding achievement for a student from a Collab Group College.

The Skills Network is sponsoring this award which consists of a £5,000 bursary to support a student from the end of their college education into self-employment or higher education.  

The award is set up in the memory of Peter Roberts who was an outstanding Principal of Stockport College and Leeds City College as well as a former Chair of 157 Group (Collab Group).

Known throughout the further education sector as a warm, humorous and dedicated professional who was committed to the success of his students. The sector was deeply saddened at his untimely death only weeks after his retirement.

The Skills Network wanted to recognise Peter’s unique contribution to the sector and its esteem and affection for a friend and erstwhile colleague by supporting an annual award to a great student who reflects the outstanding work of the sector.

Any student undertaking a course at a Collab Group college is eligible to apply for this if they:

• Have an offer to go to a university or other higher education institute to study for a technical or professional education qualification; or

• Are looking to establish their own small business.

Shelagh Legrave Chair at Collab Group said:

“Peter Roberts made a huge difference to so many students in further education.  He was an exceptional Chair of 157 Group and this scholarship is a fitting tribute to his leadership.”

Peter McCann Chair at the Skills Network said:

“I had the great pleasure and privilege to work alongside Peter Roberts. The Skills Network wanted to show our deepest respects for our friend in a way that reflected the wonderful work of Further Education College leaders in supporting students through adversity.”

Email Collab Group for more information about the bursary and how to apply.

About The Skills Network: One of the most successful providers of online learning solutions in the UK. They provide support to educators, employers and learners across the UK and internationally, by delivering and developing effective and innovative skills through distance learning.

About Collab Group: A membership organisation representing 35 of the largest colleges in the UK; this includes members in the devolved nations of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales