John and Barbara Redwood of Winsley, Bradford-on-Avon, pledged a gift in their Will in 2009, 14 years before it was realised. On Barbara’s passing in 2017, they chose to leave 66% of the residue of their estate as an endowed gift to provide scholarships for disadvantaged students in engineering, science or mathematics.

They wished for their gift to be endowed, which means it is invested for the long-term with the return on this money used to support students who would not otherwise have the financial means to study. They left the determination of financial means and the choice of students to the discretion of the University.

The John and Barbara Redwood Memorial Trust has been running for six years and so far has helped 12 students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access a world-class education here at Bath.

Creating future impact

One of the scholars they support is Ollie, a first-year computer science student from Bournemouth. He's working towards a career in cyber security and recently participated in the University's new Cyber Security Society, as well as the Computer Science Society.

“Having a scholarship removes so much financial worry for me. It makes me feel like I'm 'on par' money-wise with my peers and colleagues, and I don't feel left out. I've been able to go to the gym, which is great for my mental health. I've also explored loads of new areas of Bath that I wouldn't have seen if I was not volunteering. The scholarship has helped pay for my accommodation and food shops, and I've also been able to save up to fund my placement year as well as internships.” - Ollie, Redwood Gold Scholar