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 Scholarships & Awards programme started five years ago with the primary focus being individual scholarships – both academic and Outward Bound scholarships - but we received feedback that apprentices often faced significant costs when they purchased tools for their trade so we then introduced the apprentice award” said Trustee Jane Paterson. “We are keen for the programme to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of the community so all feedback is appreciated.”

Last year the Scholarships & Awards programme evolved further. To mark 30 years of supporting the local community the Sumner Ferrymead Foundation offered $30,000 to community clubs, groups, and organisations through a range of awards. “The response was fantastic, and the feedback make it clear that the community awards should be an integral part of the programme, so we are again offering the $5000 and $10,000 awards. The categories are quite diverse so nearly all groups can find a category they would be eligible for,” said Jane.

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.