University of Bradford plans scholarship for white working-class males

The scholarship will be funded by the Keith Howard Foundation

The University of Bradford has announced a scholarship scheme to help it attract white working-class males.

The university said its current intake of such students was below average for the sector.

The scholarship will be funded by the Keith Howard Foundation, named after the late philanthropist and businessman who studied at the university.

Prof Shirley Congdon said it "further emphasises the university's commitment to social mobility".

Four students already living in the Bradford district will each receive £400 a month towards living costs from the 2024/25 academic year.

White males eligible for free school meals are less likely to go on to higher education than any other groups, according to government data published earlier this year.

White working-class males currently represent about 1.7% of the University of Bradford's student body compared to a higher education sector average of 4.6%.

'Exciting future'

Prof Congdon, the university's vice-chancellor, said the bursaries would "ensure that everyone who studies at Bradford fulfils their potential".

Melissa Tomlinson, chair of The Keith Howard Foundation, said: "Social mobility is a key component of the work the Foundation supports across Yorkshire.

"This new scholarship will also help its students on their road to an exciting future.

"We look forward to following the journeys of the scholars who participate in the programme at the University of Bradford."

In October the University of Bradford was named the leading university in England for improving students' social mobility for the third year running.

It already offers a scholarship, funded by Keith Howard Foundation, for black and ethnic minority students studying on a full-time MSc programme within its School of Management.