Donate to the Founders’ Warner Charity

The very roots of the Founders’ Company are embedded in a real concern for supporting education and research in the material sciences and related fields in engineering , for those who need it most.

Empowering Tomorrow's Innovators: The Robert Warner Bursary

Join us in fuelling the future of aerospace and materials science innovation through the Robert Warner Bursary. Across the universities of Birmingham, Manchester, and Imperial, we identify and support exceptional talent in Materials Science and Engineering, as well as Aerospace Engineering.

Our mission is clear: to break down financial barriers and provide vital support to deserving students throughout their undergraduate courses. With six bursaries awarded annually, we empower bright minds to pursue their passions and make valuable contributions to their fields.

At the heart of our programme lies a commitment to social mobility, diversity and inclusivity. We believe that talent knows no boundaries, and we strive to create opportunities for students from all backgrounds to thrive.

As we look to the future, we recognise the growing need for support within aerospace and materials science education. Your contribution can make a tangible difference in the lives of our bursary recipients, empowering them to push boundaries and redefine what's possible in their fields.

Our MO:

Warner Bursary recipient Lamyea Ahmed pictured researching Augmented Reality Robotics at her summer internship with Satellite Applications Catapult

Donate

In order to donate you can can make a monthly standing order, or one off BACS payment to our Warner Charity:

Charity Number: 222905-5

Click here for details

We would greatly appreciate you filling in the Gift Aid form below (if you are eligible).

Awards and Bursaries

Warner Bursaries

We are dedicated to supporting students in their academic pursuits through our bursary programs. Annually, we select deserving candidates from institutions such as Imperial, Manchester, and Birmingham who are studying materials sciences, engineering, or aerospace. The selected students receive financial assistance of £500 per term, empowering them to focus on their studies and excel in their chosen fields.

Founders’ Industry Contribution Award

Recognising the importance of exposure and networking, we offer the Founders’ Industry Contribution Award biennially. This travel bursary enables recipients to attend technical conferences, expanding their professional horizons. This award underscores our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering industry connections.

Cranfield Award

For academic excellence, we present the Cranfield Award annually to the authors of the best MSc and PhD papers at Cranfield University. This recognition, administered by Prof. Mark Jolly and selected by the Cranfield Committee, highlights our support for scholarly achievement in relevant fields.

All Bursary and award winners are also encouraged to join the Artisan membership, ensuring an ongoing commitment from the Company to empower their careers.

Lectures

Robert Warner Lecture

One of our flagship events is the Robert Warner Lecture, held annually in early October. This lecture alternates between focusing on the city and the industry, offering a platform for insightful discussions. With around 60 to 65 places available, attendees can expect a stimulating one-hour lecture followed by a two-course supper. Invitations are extended to various groups, including potential members of the Founders Company, industry bursary/award students, John Warner School students, and the wider Industry and Livery community. The Lecture serves as an event to bring a diverse group of people together on a level playing field to discuss topics of contemporary importance.

Whitechapel Lectures

In our commitment to accessibility and knowledge dissemination, we host the Whitechapel online lectures. These lectures cover a wide range of topics in a format designed to be easily understandable. Held online via Zoom at 7 pm, these sessions are open to the public, aligning with our charitable purpose of education outreach. If you would like to be on the invitation list, please sign up here.

Educational Events

Informal Lunches

We believe in the power of personal connections and mentorship. Through informal lunches held throughout the year, we provide opportunities for bursary students to interact with industry professionals and mentors, facilitating knowledge exchange and guidance.

Industry Visits

To enrich learning experiences, we organise industry visits throughout the year. Led by our Industry Committee, these visits offer first hand insights into various sectors, especially in pioneering manufacturing technologies.

Gift Aid your Donation to the Robert Warner Trust