The bursaries support young people from lower-income backgrounds who want to work in television. A total of 39 bursaries have been awarded across TV production and journalism, technology, and the Steve Hewlett scholarship programme.

“Receiving a bursary from the RTS isn’t just representative of the financial backing, but of the opportunity to be a part of an industry-recognised community of like-minded people,” said Evan Taylor, who studies film at the University of Westminster.

The students, who attend 27 universities and institutions, will receive £1,000 a year to assist with their expenses and living costs. Lola Panic will receive £2,000 a year from the Steve Hewlett Memorial Fund, which is supported by the RTS and The Media Society.

In their final year of study, the RTS aims to set up mentoring opportunities, matching each bursary recipient with one of its industry members. The scholars also receive free RTS membership while studying and for a year after they graduate.

“The RTS has been delighted with the achievements of our scholars to date. We recruit talented students and provide them with some great opportunities to gain access to the industry – but the successes of our scholars are very much down to their own efforts, creativity and determination,” said RTS Chief Executive Theresa Wise.

To date, the RTS has invested over £1m in the scheme, awarding more than 250 bursaries. Continuing its generous support, eight of this year’s bursaries have been funded by STV.

Support from STV, All3- Media, Disney and YouView has enabled the scheme to grow, with more than 80% of the graduates from the first five years’ intake working in television or related industries. 

Report by Matthew Bell.