The 2025 Sumner Ferrymead Foundation Scholarships and Awards Programme is seeking applicants for a range of scholarships and awards for both individuals, and groups, clubs and organisations that reside in the Foundation’s catchment area – from Taylors Mistake through to Mt Pleasant, around to Heathcote and across to Brookhaven. There are a range of academic and Outward Bound Scholarships, along with an apprentice award. And, clubs, groups and organisations can apply for one of four categories of awards: Environment, Sports, Arts & Culture, and Education.

The Outward Bound 21 day Leadership Programme is one of the sought after scholarships because the price tag to attend is not insignificant. But, with a $5000 scholarship from the Sumner Ferrymead Foundation, the opportunity becomes within reach of most. Talk to any of the past recipients and they all rave about the experience; they talk about the camaraderie, the new experiences, and their personal growth. It’s not uncommon to hear them say that once they get used to the idea of not having their mobile phone for three weeks, they actually enjoy it! Last year’s recipient, Cara Brignull, is booked to attend the programme in May, and is eagerly looking forward to it.

This year there are three academic scholarships for students who have passed the first year of their university course. So, regardless of whether you are studying the humanities or the sciences one of the three $5000 scholarships on offer will be applicable. “These scholarships are sponsored by local people who like the Foundation’s ethos of Locals helping Locals”, said Chair of the Sumner Ferrymead Foundation Martin Hawes. “What we find particularly gratifying is that our sponsors don’t just sponsor the scholarships for one year, they sponsor them for multiple years. At the awards evening we introduce the sponsors to the recipients as we like them to see what an impact their generosity can have.”

Application forms for the scholarships and awards can be found on the Sumner Ferrymead Foundation website: sumnerferrymeadfoundation.co.nz. Applications close on April 6th 2025.