We are thrilled to announce that former BSB students Katie and Aleksander have been awarded a highly coveted scholarship from the Lord Kitchener National Memorial Fund. Katie, who was one of the many students who attend BSB from The Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), is currently embarking on her journey to study Mechanical Engineering at the University of Southampton, her first-choice university. Aleksander, a student from a family attached to The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), is pursuing a Politics and International Relations degree at the University of Exeter.
The entire BSB community is immensely proud of both students and their accomplishments. Katie’s dedication, academic prowess, and extracurricular achievements during her time at BSB has undoubtedly contributed to her selection for this prestigious award. Her success is a testament to her hard work, the high-quality education provided at BSB and the continued support and nurturing that the school provides to children coming from families associated with military organisations based in Belgium, such as SHAPE and NATO.
“Katie was an exceptional student during her time at BSB, one who demonstrated remarkable academic potential during her time at our school,” said Rachel Sheard, Maths Teacher & Head of Year 13. “Her dedication, giftedness, and talent were evident across all her subjects, particularly in Mathematics, Physics, and Biology. Katie’s outstanding performance earned her the prestigious Solvay Award for Outstanding Academic Performance, recognising her as the highest-performing A Level student in her year group. Katie’s outstanding academic performance, exceptional dedication, and exemplary character continues to inspire others as she embarks on her studies in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Southampton. We are confident that Katie will thrive in this challenging academic environment and achieve great success in her future endeavours.”
Aleksander’s achievements span multiple disciplines, including Economics, Politics, and History, where he consistently excelled during his time at BSB. His commitment to his studies is evident in his receipt of prestigious accolades including the RA Butler Politics Prize from Trinity College, Cambridge. His academic excellence extends to humanities and social sciences, where he has also been recognised for his outstanding results.
“Aleksander embodies the very essence of academic excellence and intellectual curiosity,” Rachel added. “His ability to synthesise complex ideas across various disciplines, coupled with his unwavering dedication to personal growth, sets him apart as a truly exceptional student. Aleksander’s contributions both in and out of the classroom continues to inspire his peers and exemplify the qualities we strive to nurture in all our students.”
Established in 1916, the Lord Kitchener National Memorial Fund has a rich history of supporting promising students from military backgrounds. The fund typically offers approximately 25 undergraduate scholarships annually, with each award valued at around £2,000. This substantial financial support will undoubtedly aid Katie and Aleksander in their pursuit of higher education.
Initially set up to support disabled officers and men of the First World War, the fund’s focus has evolved over time. It now primarily offers scholarships to former members of the three Services undertaking a first degree course, and the sons and daughters of parents who have served in the Armed Services.
Since its inception, the fund has awarded over 5,500 scholarships, demonstrating its long-standing commitment to education and support for those connected to the Armed Services.
The success of both Katie and Aleksander serves as an inspiration to current and future BSB students. It highlights the opportunities available to those who strive for excellence and demonstrates the high regard in which BSB students are held by prestigious organisations.
As Katie begins her studies at the University of Southampton, and Aleksander continues his journey into international relations at the University of Exeter, we are confident that they will both continue to excel and make the most of this wonderful opportunity. The entire BSB community wishes both students the very best in their future studies and looks forward to hearing about their continued success.
Learn more about BSB’s continuing relationship with our alumni.