Monday, May 19th, 2025, marked a truly inspiring day at the House of Lords as Skills and Education Group proudly sponsored the annual Helena Kennedy Foundation Celebration. This event shone a spotlight on the incredible achievements of over 100 students who, with the Foundation’s vital support, have transitioned from Further Education to higher education. Many of these remarkable individuals have overcome significant personal and financial challenges, dismantling barriers to education along the way to achieve academic success.

It was a privilege to witness firsthand the culmination of so much hard work and determination. Each student, carefully selected by the Helena Kennedy Foundation, received a £2,250 higher education bursary to kickstart their university journey. The Helena Kennedy Foundation also provides ongoing mentoring and vital skills development, creating a comprehensive support system that empowers individuals to unlock their full potential through higher education. These crucial grants and bursaries for students serve as a real catalyst for change.

Baroness Helena Kennedy KC, in whose honour the Foundation was established over two decades ago by Dame Ann Limb CBE DL, perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the day:

“This event is one of the most joyful moments of the year. These students carry with them stories of grit, ambition, and hope. The Foundation gives them a vital bridge to higher education, but it’s their courage and determination that carry them across it.”

Our very own Jane Cunningham, Interim Director of Qualifications, Assessment and Regulation, had the honour of speaking at the event. She shared that:

“It’s humbling to hear the journeys of these students – each one a reminder of why this work matters. The impact of the Foundation extends far beyond bursaries; it builds confidence, aspiration and long-term change.”

It was also emotional and inspiring to hear from previous bursary students about their personal challenges, which included abuse, homelessness, and living in care. The profound impact that education and the Helena Kennedy Foundation have had on their experiences conveyed a powerful message, as did the valuable contributions they are now empowered to make as a direct result of the support they have received. Many of these success stories highlight the transformative power of further education bursary opportunities and the crucial role bursaries play for mature students in facilitating career changes and personal growth.At Skills and Education Group, we are deeply committed to making a real difference in people’s lives through qualifications, funding opportunities, and professional development. Our century-long history has taught us about the profound impact that education and skills can have. Sponsoring the Helena Kennedy Foundation Celebration aligns perfectly with our mission to empower individuals and help them achieve their dreams, promoting widening participation and social mobility through accessible education funding.

Witnessing the joy and determination of these students reinforces our belief in the transformative power of education. We extend our warmest congratulations to all the students being celebrated, and we look forward to seeing the incredible impact they will undoubtedly make in the world. This event highlights the crucial need for ongoing student support and educational grants in the UK to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Discover the impact we have made through the Skills and Education Group Foundation and our commitment to lifelong learning here.

Find out more about the Helena Kennedy Foundation and reasons to apply for a Helena Kennedy Bursary here.