More than 70 young people to benefit from bursary scheme

SEVENTY five young people are set to benefit from bursaries to help them in their studies locally through a Viking Community Fund scheme.

The bursary scheme opened for the first time in October, and will help them in their studies either at UHI Shetland or through an apprenticeship with a local business.

It was launched to support young people who want to remain in Shetland for further education.

Shetland Community Benefit Fund manager Eleanor Gear said it was “exciting” to be able to offer the chance for people in the isles to continue their education journey.

A further support scheme will open in January, providing smaller businesses with up to £15,000 to help with the costs of taking on an apprentice.

Gear added she hoped that scheme would also help “boost the local offering”.

A small training fund is also available for young people under the age of 25, with costs of up to £1,000 in grant funding available.

Young people interested in applying should contact Shetland Community Benefit Fund directly.

The bursary fund will open again in 2025 in time for the 2025/26 student intake.