We were delighted to attend the recent Newcastle University Supporter Thank You Event at the Great North Museum: Hancock, providing the opportunity to hear first-hand stories of students whose lives have been positively impacted by the support of schemes such as the Building Futures Bursary.

The scheme, led by Newcastle University, gives young people of diverse ethnic heritage the opportunity to enter the architectural industry. Students on the programme have their fees waived for their three-year undergraduate study and receive an annual contribution to their living costs.

Daniel Jones, Associate at our Newcastle Studio, was on hand to meet some of those who have already benefitted from the scheme and to also find out more about what we can do as industry professionals to support those from diverse backgrounds who are keen to forge a career within the architectural industry.

Speaking about the Building Futures Bursary, Daniel said, “It is an honour for GSSArchitecture to be able to contribute to such a worthy cause, and to meet and hear from those who have been supported by the programme has been really inspiring and proved just how important schemes like this are.”

Paul Tyack, Director of Advancement at Newcastle University also commented, “This is a special event in our calendar and a moment to express heartfelt thanks for the invaluable support given to our students from donors and volunteers. I am thrilled to witness the positive impact of the Building Futures Bursary Programme in empowering the architects of tomorrow. We’re proud to have GSSArchitecture join us on this important journey. Together, we aim to break down the barriers that prevent students from thriving in higher education — a mission made possible only through the generosity of our supporters.”

GSSArchitecture joined the Building Futures Bursary Scheme back in 2023, committing to a five-year funding contribution. The scheme is now in its fifth year at Newcastle University with 10 students starting out on the programme since September 2020.