A number of pupils finishing school in Blackburn with Darwen will be receiving a share of £250,000 to help them progress into the future.

The Aldridge Foundation, which operates Darwen Aldridge Community Academy, Darwen Aldridge Enterprise Studio and Darwen Vale High School, is giving 10 pupils in the borough a share of a quarter of a million pounds to support their future success.

In total, 40 young people attending schools based in some of the most deprived areas of the country will be helped as part of the Next Steps Bursary Programme.

Amongst the awardees is Keighra from Darwen Aldridge Enterprise Studio, who has ambitions to become a film producer.

She said: “I am incredibly grateful I will have the freedom to experiment with my own equipment which will develop my skills further in the future.

“I am also looking forward to the given opportunities such as undertaking an internship, working with a mentor, and participating as a member in the Aldridge network.”

Another well-deserving awardee is Jack, also from Darwen Aldridge Enterprise Studio, who is going to study Graphic Design at Leeds Art University.

He said: “I’m very thankful for the bursary from the Aldridge Foundation.

“It’s going to be necessary for my education and going to university. Now I know I’ve got the funds for equipment and materials; I’ve never been more excited and motivated to advance in the creative sector.”

Matthew Little, Principal of Darwen Vale High School, added: “We are extremely grateful to the Aldridge Foundation for these valuable bursaries, which will help our students to go to the sixth form college of their choice, with the equipment to truly fulfil their potential.”

In the programme’s first year, bursaries have been awarded to students primarily in Year 11 and Year 13.