Since joining Keele in September, I’ ve had the privilege of meeting a number of our incredible alumni and supporters and learning what inspires this community to give back in such meaningful ways.
2 Impact Report
Introduction from the Vice-Chancellor
Since joining Keele in September, I’ ve had the privilege of meeting a number of our incredible alumni and supporters and learning what inspires this community to give back in such meaningful ways.
I’ ve been truly inspired by the generosity shown through gifts that support our academic and student community, not only financially, but also through volunteering opportunities. It’ s also fantastic to see more corporate partners recognising the importance of philanthropy as part of their own strategy and social responsibility, and choosing Keele as a partner in this mission. I hope you enjoy reading about initiatives such as the Horiba UK Scholarships and others featured in this edition.
It’ s equally rewarding to hear from students whose lives have been transformed by philanthropic support, whether through new initiatives like the Placements Bursary and Mental Health Charter Project, or more established programmes such as the Keele Key Fund.
Looking ahead to 2026, we are developing a new strategy and there will be a place for philanthropy at the very heart of Keele’ s ambitions. The support of our alumni and friends, through volunteering and donations, will be more vital than ever. This magazine showcases just some of the remarkable ways you make a difference to Keele and beyond. I hope these stories demonstrate the impact of your support and how deeply it is valued by our entire community.
Yours sincerely
Kevin Shakesheff
Vice-Chancellor
Keele launches innovative new placement bursary
Education is always evolving and at Keele University we pride ourselves on providing an outstanding, innovative education for all, that goes beyond a student’ s time at university and prepares them for their future.
This £ 500 non-means-tested bursary is available to support students who will be completing a non-mandatory placement – both curricular and extra-curricular( but brokered by the University).
We know how important the right work experience is in helping graduates to secure their first job and that’ s why at Keele, for our undergraduate courses starting in September 2025, every course * offers students a placement opportunity.
A placement allows students to gain hands-on experience, develop key skills, and get a better understanding of the world of work they are interested in, all helping to boost employability upon graduation. It also allows for the development of important networks and connections, which can be vital for a future career.
However, at Keele we also understand that these opportunities aren’ t always accessible for all and we want to ensure that financial constraints aren’ t preventing opportunity. With generous funding from alumni and supporters, we have therefore launched our new placement bursary.
A brokered placement refers to an extra-curricular placement opportunity where the University has actively supported the process. This could include helping to design the job description, organising interviews, facilitating discussions between the student and employer, and ensuring that both parties agree on the placement terms.