University of Chester students celebrate £5,000 Santander Scholarships
Two students at the University of Chester have expressed their gratitude after each being awarded a £5,000 Santander Scholarship.
The new initiative, by banking giant Santander, is designed to support current university students in reaching their full potential and enhance their future career prospects, helping them with education-related expenses. These include course materials, accommodation, and other core expenses that help students stay focused on their studies.
More than 600 students applied for the two Santander Scholarships at the University of Chester through Santander Open Academy, Santander’s free global learning platform, which offers access to courses, content and opportunities to support employability.
The awards went to students from the University’s Medical School and School of Nursing and Midwifery.
One of the winners, Graduate Entry Medicine student Luna, said: “This scholarship has completely changed my trajectory for being able to continue my studies in medicine.
“The Santander Scholarship has enabled me to keep on track with my goals of becoming a doctor in 2029. Thank you, Santander; this award will help change my life.”

Angela Standish, Head of Careers and Employability, said: “Congratulations to the students who have received a Santander Scholarship this year. Their commitment to learning, resilience in the face of challenges, and passion for making a difference in their chosen fields are truly inspiring.
“The University of Chester has a valued partnership with Santander, supporting students through a range of employability and student enterprise initiatives designed to enhance the student experience, promote financial wellbeing, and expand career development opportunities.
“These initiatives form part of the University’s ongoing commitment to ensuring students are supported to succeed during their studies and beyond, including a lifetime offer of careers support for our students and graduates.
“Our Allied Health students also make a significant contribution beyond their studies, regularly giving back through placements, community engagement, and frontline support. Their efforts make a tangible difference to public health and wellbeing and highlight the powerful connection between education and community impact.”
Jon Powell, UK Partnership Director, Santander UK, said: “We’re delighted to see students at the University of Chester benefit from our scholarship programme. Through Santander Open Academy, we’re proud to support students from all backgrounds to access opportunities that help them progress in their studies and future careers. Congratulations to the winners on this fantastic achievement.”
Main image: University of Chester Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Eunice Simmons, right, presenting Luna with the Santander Scholarships £5,000 award.
Image 2: Luna, left, with Angela Standish, Head of Careers and Employability.