Approval Infographic

A RECORD-BREAKING QUARTER FOR STWLC!

by News

STWLC approves a huge, record-breaking £371,100 in interest-free loans in the second quarter of 2025.

The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity is thrilled to announce another record-breaking milestone for the Charity, with the highest EVER quarterly loan approval figure of £371,100!

Within this figure, a massive 21 interest-free business loans were approved totalling £343,200, while three interest-free education loans were approved, to the value of £27,900.

“It’s clear that more people are hearing about the Charity and applying for loans now than they ever have done before.”

The Leicestershire & Rutland businesses set to benefit from this huge allocation of funds include a deli, interior designer, fitness studio, entertainment venue, pet store and an aesthetics service. Meanwhile, the education loans will support the studies of an MA in Fine Art and MPhil in Film and Screen studies.

Lucy Womack, STWLC Chair, said: “This really is incredible news for the Charity. Supporting the business and education dreams of young people in our county is what we’re all about, so to do that with £371,100 in just one quarter is truly amazing.

“To add some context to that figure, across the whole of 2022 we approved £330,500. This jumped up to a record £600,000 in 2023, and £495,600 followed in 2024. To approve £371,100 this quarter (taking us to £509,332 for 2025 so far) shows that we’re on track for another special, record-breaking year.

“This also shows that whilst our offering of an interest free loan with nothing to pay for the first three years sounds too good to be true, it really isn’t – and these new borrowers are testament to this.

“It’s clear that more people are hearing about the Charity and applying for loans now than they ever have done before, and that’s something we can all celebrate. We wish all of our new borrowers the very best with their business and education endeavours!”

Established in 1542, STWLC hosts quarterly application windows each year in which people aged over 18 and under 45 can apply for unique interest-free loans of up to £20,000 to aid local businesses, or £10,000 to support students wishing to return to postgraduate education. The Charity’s loans are interest-free for nine years, and become repayable by equal instalments after three years.

The next deadline for applications is 3:30pm on Thursday 3rd July 2025.

APPLY FOR AN INTEREST-FREE BUSINESS LOAN

APPLY FOR AN INTEREST-FREE EDUCATION LOAN

Grants social media

GRANTS UP TO £5,000 AVAILABLE TO LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND BUSINESSES

by News

We’re delighted to announce that we are now welcoming applications for grants of up to £5,000 to support businesses within the county, with a total pot of £100,000 in grants funding available.

Last year, we doubled our grants budget to £100,000 from £50,000, giving more businesses than ever before the chance to benefit, and that same budget has been allocated for 2025.

Whereas our interest-free business loans are to be repaid, these grants of up to £5,000 require no repayment by recipients at all, offering a much-needed boost during a challenging economic time for small businesses.

To be eligible for consideration for the business grant, applicants must meet the criteria listed on our website, which include being aged over 18 and under 45 and currently residing in Leicestershire or Rutland (and operating your business from within this area).

Following the culmination of last year’s business grant scheme, a number of businesses benefited from the Charity’s funding, including Sara Aspinall of STAK Orthopaedics, based in Bagworth. Sara said: “Receiving the grant was a major milestone for STAK. It will significantly boost our marketing efforts, allowing us to reach more patients and healthcare professionals.”

Another recipient was Samuel Ballard, who runs the Leicester-based travel agency Club Voyages. He said: “Receiving this grant means the world to a small business like ours. Having the support of charities like STWLC means that our dreams are one step closer to reality.”

Samuel Ballard was successful with his grant application, giving his business Club Voyages a timely boost

Ammo Khan, Trustee at The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity leading the grants scheme, commented: “The grants scheme is always an exciting time for the Charity as it gives Leicestershire business owners an opportunity to access free funding in order to grow their business. We look forward to receiving applications and supporting more young entrepreneurs across the county.”

Anybody interested in applying for a business grant of up to £5,000 from STWLC can do so by CLICKING HERE, where you can also find further information on the scheme.

The application deadline is Monday 25 August 2025.

APPLY FOR YOUR BUSINESS GRANT

Richard Buxton

REBOOTING A CAREER: THE STORY BEHIND ENRICH TECH SOLUTIONS

by Business Success StoriesNews

Richard Buxton is no stranger to wearing many hats. Before launching Enrich Tech Solutions, his professional journey spanned diverse industries – from IT system administration and tech support to construction, maintenance, and even managing bustling bars and nightclubs in Leicester.

“I was an IT systems administrator/tech support engineer and data analyst previously,” Richard shared.

I’ve also worked in construction trades, maintenance and property development, and have also managed bars and nightclubs in Leicester in the early 2000s.”

With an eclectic background bolstered by years of practical experience and academic achievement, Richard always harboured the ambition of bringing his varied skills under one roof.

“For studies I have completed lots of IT courses as well as tech repairs and PC building studies over the years, but have also done a joint honours BA in Creative Writing and Popular Music – so variety is the spice of life!” he said. “As such, I have always wanted to put all this together and use my skills running my own business.”

His entrepreneurial journey began in 2019 when he collaborated with the then-director of MJ Computer Centre in Market Harborough to relaunch and manage the business, renaming it MH Tech Centre Ltd. Under his guidance, the business flourished – but change was on the horizon. When the company was sold in late 2023, the new ownership took the business in a different direction.

“Things went in a different direction so I decided to launch my own brand and develop my own business,” he explained.

The Birth of Enrich Tech Solutions

It was at this point that Richard launched Enrich Tech Solutions – a tech support and repair business rooted in customer service excellence and technical expertise.

“We believe that technology should empower, not frustrate” is our slogan,” he said.

“We provide over the counter tech support and advice, on the spot repairs, home and business callout services. We can undertake repairs for all devices, from Macbooks/laptops and computers to vintage hi-fi like Dansette record players, and new PC builds; specialising in the higher-end gaming builds. Our focus is first with the client, and with hope to make a lasting relationship.”

Finding Support through STWLC

Starting a new business is a formidable task, and Richard knew he needed the right support to succeed, which is where STWLC came in.

“I had a recommendation from a client at the Harborough Innovation Centre to ask the council about grants and loans for start-up businesses in the area, and STWLC was the first name recommended,” he recalled.

Richard found the application and interview process with STWLC to be refreshingly smooth and personable.

“It was all fairly straightforward. The online interview process was fine, and I quite enjoyed it. The Trustees were nice. It was mostly Sarah Hope (STWLC Operations Manager) I spoke to a few times, she was friendly, professional and good to deal with.”

“STWLC have had quite a pivotal role in my journey, from the business planning to the launch of everything it was key to have some extra funding.”

Enrich Tech

Putting the Loan to Work

With an interest-free business loan secured, Richard was able to transform his vision into reality.

“The funds were used to buy stock, set up the shop with furniture and all shop fittings, marketing materials and to buy additional tools for the trade. Plus, a portion was used to go towards a vehicle for business purposes.”

The support from STWLC was not just financial, it also played a crucial part in giving Richard the confidence to move forward decisively.

“STWLC have had quite a pivotal role in my journey, from the business planning to the launch of everything it was key to have some extra funding to help me start off in a way that can hit the ground running,” he said. “I would, and have recommended them to others already.”

A Bright Future Ahead

Thanks to his determination, wide-ranging skills, and a helping hand from STWLC, Richard Buxton has turned a moment of uncertainty into a thriving opportunity.

For more information on Enrich Tech Solutions, visit their website here

Thinking of launching your own business? Find out how STWLC can support your journey with an interest-free business loan.

APPLY FOR AN INTEREST-FREE BUSINESS LOAN
Isobel-website

PAVING THE WAY TO A LEGAL CAREER: ISOBEL MUNN’S JOURNEY WITH STWLC SUPPORT

by Education Success StoriesNews

Growing up in the Leicestershire and Northamptonshire region, Isobel Munn always had a deep interest in the criminal justice system. Her academic journey began at Southfield School in Kettering, where she studied from the age of 11 through to 18. It was from there that she took her first step into higher education, enrolling at De Montfort University in Leicester.

“At 18, I attended De Montfort University in Leicester where I studied for a total of five years,” Isobel shares. “My undergraduate degree was Criminology and Criminal Justice which I completed between 2014 and 2017.”

Transitioning to Law

While her undergraduate studies laid a solid foundation in the theory of crime and justice, it was her postgraduate education that propelled Isobel towards her current role as a Criminal Defence Solicitor at Noble Solicitors. To make the leap from criminology graduate to qualified solicitor, Isobel pursued two key legal qualifications at De Montfort University: the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) and the Legal Practice Course (LPC).

“Between 2017 and 2018 I completed the Graduate Diploma in Law at De Montfort University,” she explains. “This was a conversion course that gave me the equivalent of a law degree. I completed the seven core modules required to achieve a law degree that would usually be split over three years.

“From 2018 to 2019, I then completed the Legal Practice Course, again at De Montfort University. This was the course that all Solicitors/Barristers were required to complete.”

The Courses That Made a Career

The importance of these postgraduate courses to Isobel’s career path cannot be overstated.

“Completion of both the Graduate Diploma in Law and Legal Practice Course were absolutely essential in being able to pursue employment as a Solicitor. I would not have been able to become a Solicitor without having completed the courses.”

Discovering STWLC

However, as with many postgraduate students, funding these essential studies was a significant challenge. That’s where The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC) entered the picture.

“I cannot recall exactly,” Isobel says when asked how she first discovered the Charity. “I believe that there was something advertised at the University or it may have been suggested when I was seeking support to arrange funding for my postgraduate studies.”

A Positive Experience with the Charity

What began as a potential funding solution turned into a pivotal moment in Isobel’s professional development. Her experience with STWLC was not only practical, but also motivational.

“I found the experience helpful! When applying for the loan, it was helpful to be able to clarify, in my own mind, what my plan was for the future. Everyone was very friendly and appeared as though they really wanted to help me invest in my goals.”

The Impact of STWLC

Reflecting on the overall impact of the Charity, Isobel is unequivocal.

“100%. Without STWLC, I don’t know how I would have been able to fund my postgraduate studies which ultimately led me to become a Solicitor. STWLC gave me an opportunity to invest in myself and have confidence that I could pursue my dream job. It is a fantastic Charity aimed at supporting people become their best selves; without taking anything in return. I would have no hesitation in recommending STWLC to anyone.”

Invest in Your Future

Are you looking to invest in your future through postgraduate study but unsure how to fund it?

STWLC offers interest-free education loans of up to £10,000 to help individuals take the next step in their academic and professional journey – just like Isobel did.

Find out more and apply below.

APPLY FOR AN INTEREST-FREE EDUCATION LOAN
Lyni

EMPOWERED BY ART, FUELLED BY SUPPORT: HOW LYNI SARGENT BECAME AN ART PSYCHOTHERAPIST

by Education Success StoriesNews

Lyni Sargent’s path to becoming a self-employed Art Psychotherapist is a story of perseverance, late diagnoses, and the transformative power of art. Her academic and personal journey showcases how determination and the right support systems can lead to success – even when the odds seem stacked against you.

Early Life and Educational Challenges

“I grew up in Hinckley, Leicestershire and attended Battling Brook Primary School, Redmoor High School, and then completed my GCSEs at John Cleveland College. I failed all of my GCSEs as I had undiagnosed Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, and ADHD.”

It wasn’t until later in life that Lyni began to understand the challenges she faced throughout her education. At 28, she took a bold step and enrolled in a foundation degree in photography at Leicester College.

“Within a couple of weeks of starting, my struggles became apparent and I was referred for a dyslexia assessment. Shortly afterwards I was diagnosed with dyslexia and dyspraxia.”

Reclaiming Education and Gaining Confidence

Far from giving up, Lyni continued her studies, topping up her qualification to a BA (Hons) in Professional Studies in the Creative Industry – sponsored by De Montfort University. With her dyslexia diagnosis giving her clarity, she took on another challenge: re-sitting her GCSEs.

“Knowing that I had dyslexia made me feel empowered to retake my GCSEs and I gained a 7 in Maths, and a 9 in English. These were at North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College.”

Her postgraduate studies brought further revelations. “It was when I commenced my MA that I was screened for, and diagnosed with, ADHD.”

Discovering a Passion in Art Therapy

Lyni chose to pursue an MA in Art Psychotherapy Practice through the Northern Programme at Netherthorpe House, Sheffield, sponsored by Leeds Beckett.

“I always found school difficult, but bizarrely I found Art Therapy relatively easy. There was a lot of coursework to get through, lots of reading and assignments, but because it was something that I felt so passionate about it didn’t feel like hard work.”

Her course included practical elements that helped ground the theory.

“We also had to complete reflective practice which involved making artwork which enabled us to reflect on what we had read. We then discussed as a group our reflections. I think this action kept our stress levels lower which helped with our studies.”

A pivotal part of the course was her placement.

“I completed my placement at Maplewell Hall School in Loughborough which is a lovely school for High School aged children with Special Educational Needs.”

Paving the Way to Employment

Lyni is clear about the importance of her qualification in launching her career.

“Art Psychotherapy/Art Therapy is a protected title, so I would not be able to practice without the qualification. So yes, (the interest-free loan) made a very big, positive impact!”

Support from The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity

When it came to funding her postgraduate studies, Lyni sought out financial support.

“A peer had received a grant who lives in the North of England. I knew I wasn’t eligible as location was a criteria, but I did a Google search to see if there was anything similar for Leicestershire.”

That search led her to STWLC’s interest-free education loan.

“It was very straightforward. I often feel overwhelmed when it comes to following processes, but Sarah Hope (STWLC Operations Manager) was so kind, calm and professional that she made the whole process feel effortless.”

The Charity made a significant difference in helping Lyni manage the cost of studying.

“With me living in Hinckley and having to travel to Sheffield each week, I could not have afforded the course without the support of STWLC. Student Finance didn’t cover the fees, never mind all of the extra expenses that come with studying! I had to purchase so many books as they weren’t available in libraries, pay for fuel and a B&B each week, as well as manage on a reduce income as I was only able to work for two and a half days a week.”

Her message to others considering postgraduate study is simple:

“I would most definitely recommend STWLC’s interest-free education loan to anybody studying a postgraduate course!

Looking to Further Your Education Without the Financial Burden?

STWLC offers interest-free education loans to eligible students pursuing postgraduate study. If, like Lyni, you’re passionate about your future but need financial support to get there, STWLC could be the helping hand you need.

Click below to learn more about how to apply and take the next step towards your postgraduate journey – interest-free and full of possibility.

 

APPLY FOR AN INTEREST-FREE EDUCATION LOAN
Elly

HOW AN STWLC LOAN AND GRANT TRANSFORMED ELLY BLAIR’S CAREER

by Business Success Stories

Elly Blair has always had a deep passion for sports and an appreciation for an active lifestyle. Growing up in Market Harborough, she attended Welland Park and Robert Smyth Academy, where she pursued A-Levels in PE, Maths, Psychology, and Biology. From a young age, Elly was actively engaged in competitive swimming, netball, and dance at Harborough Academy. Her love for sports led her to Sheffield Hallam University, where she studied Physical Activity, Health, and Exercise Science, before moving on to complete her Master’s degree in Sports Therapy at the University of Lincoln.

Discovering The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity

When considering funding options for her postgraduate studies, Elly came across The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC). “I was looking into loans available for Master’s degrees, and the education loan at STWLC came up. It was a much better option for my Master’s, being interest-free compared to taking on another student loan,” she recalls.

The MSc Sports Therapy Experience

Elly’s MSc in Sports Therapy was an intensive and hands-on programme, allowing her to develop practical skills essential for her career. “It was a lot of practical sessions to get used to handling, assessing, and treating clients,” she explains. “We spent a lot of time in the gym learning about sports rehabilitation and designing structured rehab plans tailored to each client, rather than handing out generic exercises.”

“Quite simply, I wouldn’t be a qualified Sports Therapist without their education loan, as taking out another huge student loan wasn’t an option.”

A crucial part of her degree was completing 200 hours of placement experience. Elly secured a placement with Wasps Rugby, working in their medical department over the summer. This experience opened doors to a long-term role with the Wasps academy teams, where she worked for five years. “It shows the importance of making the most of placement opportunities and how they can lead to a career after finishing your studies,” she adds.

Launching The Rehab Coach

Building on her professional experience, Elly founded The Rehab Coach, a rehabilitation business based in Market Harborough. The business operates nationwide through online services, offering bespoke rehabilitation programmes to athletes and the general public.

“Having worked in professional sport, I saw the elite level of rehabilitation available to injured players. It made me question why that level of care wasn’t accessible to the general public,” says Elly. The Rehab Coach was born out of a desire to provide high-quality, personalised rehabilitation. Rather than simply prescribing a generic set of exercises, the business assesses each client’s full-body functional movement to uncover underlying causes of injury.

A key differentiator for The Rehab Coach is their use of cutting-edge VALD technology, which tests an athlete’s strengths and weaknesses, asymmetries left to right and also their running, hopping and jumping capabilities, in an objective manner. “This technology allows us to create bespoke rehab programmes based on precise data and track progress over time, ensuring a full recovery and long-term resilience in sport,” Elly explains.

The Impact of the Business Grant

Receiving a business grant from STWLC was a game-changer for The Rehab Coach. “Initially, working alone while raising my little boy meant I had very little time for an online presence. Bringing in my business partner, Harvey, gave us the capacity to take on more clients, and we knew we needed to invest in rebranding and marketing.”

The grant enabled The Rehab Coach to revamp their website, hire a social media manager, and significantly enhance their online presence. “Since implementing these changes just three months ago, we’ve seen a huge increase in enquiries and awareness of our business in town,” she says.

Additionally, the grant allowed The Rehab Coach to upgrade its VALD technology, reinforcing its position as a leader in rehabilitation services. “This equipment is vital to our business. It sets us apart by enabling us to measure weaknesses and imbalances, create data-driven rehab plans, and track client progress to determine when they are ready to return to their sport or activity.”

“Having a social media manager has eased the pressure massively and allows us to have more time for clients”

A Transformational Journey with STWLC

Reflecting on her journey, Elly acknowledges the significant impact of STWLC on her education and business. “Quite simply, I wouldn’t be a qualified Sports Therapist without their education loan, as taking out another huge student loan wasn’t an option. Our business grant has allowed us to take The Rehab Coach to the next level – we’ve tripled our client numbers and can now deliver a more professional service using advanced technology.”

The support from STWLC has also provided much-needed relief in balancing business and family life. “Having a social media manager has eased the pressure massively and allows us to have more time for clients and focus on delivering the best level of rehab to them, rather than content creation and marketing.”

Elly’s journey is a testament to the power of financial support in unlocking opportunities for professional growth. Whether through an interest-free education loan or a business grant, STWLC continues to empower ambitious individuals like Elly to achieve their goals.

If, like Elly, you could benefit from an interest-free education loan up to £10,000 to help cover postgraduate living and tuition costs, please click here to read our eligibility criteria and apply.

Applications for our business grants are currently closed, however we welcome applications for our business loans all year round. These are completely interest-free, available up to £20,000, and can be repaid over a generous nine-year term. Please click here for details.

Loan approval graphic

CHARITY AWARDS £138,332 IN INTEREST-FREE BUSINESS & EDUCATION LOANS

by News

The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity is delighted to announce that 11 loans totalling £138,332 were awarded to students and entrepreneurs in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland in the first quarter of 2025.

Seven interest-free business loans totalling £98,332 have been awarded to businesses including a coffee shop and beauty salon, in addition to businesses providing personal training and educational classes for young children.

Meanwhile, four interest-free education loans, each to the value of £10,000, have been awarded to support postgraduate qualifications including a Master’s (MA) in Social Work and a Master of Laws (LLM) Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).

Established in 1542, STWLC hosts quarterly application windows each year in which people aged over 18 and under 45 can apply for unique interest-free loans of up to £20,000 to aid local businesses, or £10,000 to support students wishing to return to postgraduate education. The Charity’s loans are interest-free for nine years, and become repayable by equal instalments after three years.

Lucy Womack, Chair of STWLC, said: “We’re very proud to continue supporting ambitious individuals in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland through our unique interest-free loans. By investing in both aspiring entrepreneurs and postgraduate students, we are helping to strengthen local businesses and provide opportunities for personal and professional growth. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these loans will have on the recipients and their communities.”

Application packs are available to download upon completion of a contact form on our website.

The next deadline for applications is 3:30pm on Tuesday 1 April 2025.

Lizzie Gray

MAKING WORDS WORK: HOW STWLC HELPED A COPYWRITING BUSINESS THRIVE

by Business Success Stories

Starting and growing a business is rarely a straightforward journey. For many entrepreneurs, securing the right support can make all the difference. Lizzie Gray, Founder and Director of Gray and White Consultancy Limited, understands this first-hand.

With a background in communication, business analysis, and coaching, Lizzie had the expertise to help businesses refine their messaging, but taking her own company to the next level required additional funding.

That’s where The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC) came in. Through our interest-free business loan, Lizzie was able to invest in key areas of her business, laying the foundation for long-term success.

About Gray and White Consultancy

Based in Kirby Muxloe, Leicester, Gray and White Consultancy is dedicated to making words work for businesses.

“I specialise in copywriting, tender writing and brand messaging, helping businesses communicate clearly and persuasively, whether that’s through bidding for contracts, refreshing their website copy, or refining their brand voice generally,” Lizzie begins.

“It’s a mix of strategy and storytelling, ensuring their words don’t just sound good but actually get them results.”

Discovering The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity

Lizzie first learned about STWLC through networking with the Charity’s marketing consultant. He introduced her to the opportunity, and the idea of an interest-free loan to support business growth immediately caught her attention.

“I first heard about STWLC through Martin Hageman while networking. He mentioned it as something I should look into, and it stuck with me,” Lizzie recalls.

“The idea of an interest-free loan to support business growth isn’t something you come across every day, and it came at the right time for me when I was looking to take Gray and White to the next stage.”

Office front

The Application and Interview Experience

Applying for funding can often be a daunting and lengthy process, but Lizzie found the STWLC application simple and accessible. “It was surprisingly straightforward!” she says.

“The interview wasn’t an interrogation; it was a good conversation about my business, where I wanted to take it, and how the funding would help. Sarah Hope (STWLC Operations Manager & Clerk) and the Trustees were really supportive, and they obviously want to see businesses like mine succeed.”

“The funding gave me the breathing space to make investments in my business, but more than that, it was a huge confidence boost.”

Using the Loan to Drive Business Growth

The interest-free loan from STWLC allowed Lizzie to lay a strong foundation for her business.

“I used it to establish physical premises, update my marketing, qualifications and website, and invest in a car to travel more easily to meet clients,” Lizzie explains.

“That face-to-face time has been a real game-changer. It’s made a huge difference in building relationships and securing work.”

Inside office

The Impact of STWLC on Gray and White Consultancy

For Lizzie, the loan was more than just financial support – it also helped to increase confidence.

“The funding gave me the breathing space to make investments in my business, but more than that, it was a huge confidence boost,” she reflects.

“Knowing that an organisation believed in my business enough to back it really helped.”

Lizzie wholeheartedly recommends STWLC to other business owners who meet the criteria and need funding to grow: ” I always recommend STWLC to other business owners. If you need funding to grow and meet the criteria, it’s well worth looking into.”

If you’re an entrepreneur looking for a way to take your business to the next level, STWLC could provide the support you need to turn your vision into reality.

If you’re aged between 18-45 and reside in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland, please click here to find out if you’re eligible for our interest-free business loan.

To contact Gray and White Consultancy, email lizzie@grayandwhiteconsultancy.

Peter-Hale-1

FROM CLASSROOM TO COURTROOM: HOW AN INTEREST-FREE LOAN IGNITED PETER’S CAREER

by Education Success StoriesNews

The path to becoming a barrister is one of rigorous study, intensive training and significant financial commitment. Peter Hale’s journey exemplifies the dedication required to achieve this goal. Now a barrister at 12 King’s Bench Walk, Peter reflects on his academic and professional journey, as well as the vital role The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC) played in his success.

Roots and Education

Peter was born in London, before moving to the East Midlands at the age of 11. He attended school in Oakham and later studied at King Edward VII Sixth Form in Melton Mowbray. It was here that Peter’s aspirations began to take shape, ultimately leading him to pursue a Law degree at the University of Exeter.

Driven to deepen his understanding of law on an international scale, Peter continued his education by completing a Master’s in European Law at the University of Rennes in Brittany, France.

The Bar Professional Training Course

The next step on Peter’s journey was the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) at City Law School, University of London – a mandatory qualification for those aspiring to become barristers.

“The BPTC is essential for fulfilling the vocational stage of training,” Peter explains. “It provides a foundation in procedural law and equips aspiring barristers with skills in advocacy, negotiation, drafting, and research.”

Successfully completing the BPTC enabled Peter to progress to the pupillage stage of training and, ultimately, qualify as a barrister.

“Government support isn’t available for courses like the BPTC, so without STWLC’s financial assistance, it’s difficult to see how I could have achieved my career goals”

Finding Support Through STWLC

Like many postgraduate students, Peter faced significant financial challenges when it came to funding his studies. While exploring his options, he discovered STWLC, an organisation offering interest-free loans to residents of Leicestershire and Rutland pursuing educational or business opportunities.

“When I was researching ways to fund my postgraduate studies, I came across STWLC online,” Peter recalls. “It was one of the most accessible charities for residents of Leicestershire and Rutland.”

The Role of STWLC in Peter’s Journey

STWLC proved to be a lifeline for Peter, enabling him to pursue his ambitions without the financial barriers that might have otherwise held him back.

“Government support isn’t available for courses like the BPTC, so without STWLC’s financial assistance, it’s difficult to see how I could have achieved my career goals,” he says. “Beyond the funding, the charity provided encouragement and reassurance throughout my studies.”

Peter also appreciated the clarity and fairness of the Charity’s repayment terms.

“The application process was well-managed and the interest-free scheduled repayments meant that I have always known how much I would need to repay at which stages. I would highly recommend the Charity to anyone considering further education and needing financial support.”

A Career Realised

For Peter, the support of STWLC wasn’t just financial – it was foundational to his success. And for those following in his footsteps, his advice is clear: don’t hesitate to seek out the resources and support that can help make your goals a reality.

For more information about STWLC’s interest-free education loans, which are available up to £10,000, interest-free for nine years, please click here

Jo Rogers

PRESERVING THE PAST, BUILDING THE FUTURE: JOANNE ROGERS’ POSTGRADUATE JOURNEY

by Education Success StoriesNews

For Joanne Rogers, a passion for history and preservation has been a guiding light throughout her career. Now a Customer Service Assistant with Leicester Museums Service, part of Leicester City Council, Joanne has her sights set on a new horizon: working directly with historic collections. With the support of the Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC), she is pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Conservation Studies at the University of Lincoln, bringing her closer to fulfilling her professional aspirations.

A Love for History, Sparked Early

Joanne grew up in Kingswinford, a town in the West Midlands, where her interest in history began to take root. She attended Summerhill School before continuing her education at King Edward VI College in Stourbridge. In 2002, she moved to Leicester to study a BA in History of Art, Architecture, and Design at De Montfort University. This foundational degree ignited her passion for preserving the beauty and integrity of historical objects, setting the stage for her current studies.

Diving into Conservation Studies

Joanne’s postgraduate course at the University of Lincoln focuses on the complex science and ethics of conservation.

“The course covers the conservation and preservation of historic objects, learning the science behind the types of deterioration an object may undergo throughout its life and how to identify these issues,” Joanne explains.

“We’ve also learned how to halt further deterioration and consolidate the object for future display – whether it’s in a museum, part of a private collection, or in storage. My studies have taught me about the ethical considerations in handling objects and the importance of meticulous documentation of any treatments they undergo.”

Her enthusiasm for the subject is evident: “I’ve loved the course so far. I’m looking forward to working on a more complex object and learning how to conserve it.”

Balancing Education and a Museum Career

With 18 years of experience in museum operations, Joanne is well-versed in the sector. However, she hopes her new qualification will allow her to shift into a collections-based role. “I hope that when I finish my course, I will be able to put all that I have learned into practice, caring for museum objects.”

“I wouldn’t have been able to afford to join this course and develop my knowledge without the support of STWLC”

Discovering Support from STWLC

Pursuing postgraduate education while balancing professional and personal responsibilities isn’t always easy, but Joanne found invaluable support through STWLC.

She first heard about the Charity from a colleague and describes the experience as seamless and supportive. “It has been a wonderful process. Getting everything sorted has been straight-forward. I’m dyslexic and find forms quite challenging, but the correspondence with Sarah Hope and the Charity has been really helpful,” she shares.

Making the Impossible Possible

Joanne credits STWLC’s interest-free education loan for enabling her to pursue her studies. “I wouldn’t have been able to afford to join this course and develop my knowledge without the support of STWLC,” she says.

When asked if she would recommend the charity to others, her response is emphatic:

“Absolutely. The charity has played an important role in my journey, and I would definitely recommend it to others.”

Looking Ahead

As Joanne continues her studies, she looks forward to deepening her expertise and transitioning into a new chapter of her career. Her journey – from a childhood in Kingswinford to her current role in Leicester’s museums – shows the power of determination, passion, and support from organisations like STWLC.

If, like Joanne, you’re considering a return to university for a postgraduate course, click here to learn more about our education loans. They are completely interest-free for nine years, with no repayments required in the first three.