Wesleyan Supporting Midlands Talent Development With Aston University

News
15/08/2018

Wesleyan, the specialist financial services mutual, has developed a strategic partnership that will pledge £250,000 to Aston University over the next five years. The partnership will encourage and develop local young people from deprived backgrounds into medicine through student scholarships schemes, as well as developing supporting health, social development and innovation projects at the university.


Professor Alec Cameron, Vice-Chancellor of Aston University said:

"We’re delighted to have established this multifaceted partnership with Wesleyan. Aston and Wesleyan both have a long history of supporting growth and prosperity in the region, and we’re proud to receive their support in helping us develop local talent and improve accessibility to higher education. We look forward to welcoming Wesleyan colleagues onto our Executive Apprenticeship MBA, each of whom will accelerate their career development whilst benefitting the business through confident and informed leadership.”


The partnership will include:


Scholarships – to support seven students with the cost of studies and work placements during their 5-year degree. The students, who will be selected by the university, will come through the University’s Sir Doug Ellis Pathway to Healthcare programme, which works with local disadvantaged students during their A-Levels to raise their aspirations and equip them with the skills and confidence needed to apply for a place on a medical or health related degree.


Annual student prizes – Wesleyan will donate annual financial prizes for leading students at the University’s Medical and Law schools.


The Wesleyan Foundation Project Fund - £50,000 to fund projects at the University which will support health, social development and innovation outcomes.


Wesleyan employee development - degree apprenticeships for Wesleyan staff to complete an Executive Apprenticeship MBA as well as providing guest lectures, work experience and knowledge sharing between the two partners.


Nathan Wallis, Wesleyan Head of Corporate Communications and Engagement said:

“As a business focused on supporting the financial needs of doctors, dentists, teachers and lawyers, developing the next generation of talent is critical to the future of the Midlands and that’s why we’re proud to have partnered with Aston University.

This partnership allows us to support a local university and their students as well as providing our colleagues here at Wesleyan the chance to continue with their professional and academic development with a trusted local partner."


The partnership is part funded by the Wesleyan Foundation, set up to support community-based initiatives in partnership with the Heart of England Community Foundation.