Our 2022 Educational Awards Winners

Updated: 28 Jan 2025

Congratulations to our three First Degree Course Educational Award winners for 2022, Amelia, Ava and Francesca.

Financial help to study

Each year, we invite Oddfellows undertaking their first Degree at University to apply for our Educational Awards, the winners of which will receive a grant of up to £900 per year of their course.

Jane Nelson, CEO of the Oddfellows, said, “Being able to support our members with their studies is a huge honour. We hope that the Educational Award will give them the best start at University and the freedom to pursue their dream careers.”

Let’s meet our First Degree Course Educational Award recipients for 2022!

Ava Craven, studying Veterinary Medicine at the University of Nottingham

Ava Craven, a member of Leodis Branch

Ava is reading Veterinary Medicine at the University of Nottingham, and plans to use the funds to support her whilst she completes 34 weeks of work experience.

On receiving the news, Ava said: “I am very grateful to the Oddfellows for this Educational Award; as well as helping me complete the 34 weeks of work experience, it will also go towards paying for equipment like my suture kit, stethoscope and tunic. Veterinary medicine is a very long and intense course so this grant will be able to help me focus on my studies and support me on my journey to my dream job!

“In the future I would love to be able to volunteer at animal sanctuaries around the world. My favourite animals are elephants, and being able to use my skills and career to help them would be a dream come true. I also look forward to the idea of being able to open my own practice.”

Francesca Brennan Brown, reading Education Studies at Bristol University

Francesca Brennan Brown, a member of Leodis Branch

Francesca is reading Education Studies at Bristol University, and is excited to use the funds to get involved with extra-curricular activities at University.

She said, “As well as helping me afford essential course books, the grant has allowed me to be able to join the Uni Women’s Rugby Society.

“This degree has allowed me to explore wider issues such as racism and climate change, as well as how different factors such as economics and politics can impact education. After completing my degree at Bristol, I hope to continue my studies by getting a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in order to become a primary school teacher.”

Amelia Davies, studying Psychology at Liverpool John Moores University

Amelia Davies, a member of South East Lancashire Branch

After deferring her studies for a year, our 2021 Educational Award winner, Amelia Davies, is beginning her Psychology course at Liverpool John Moores University.

Amelia told us, “I chose to study psychology as I am fascinated by the subject, especially health psychology, as I am interested in the link between mind and body and their interaction with each other.

"I am extremely grateful that the Oddfellows chose me for this award, as it will be a huge help towards my commute to and from University. I hope that my studies lead me to become a research psychologist specialising in health psychology after a masters and hopefully a PhD.”

About our Educational Awards and how to apply

Visit the Educational Awards section of our website to find out more about the First Degree Course and Apprenticeship Educational Award Awards, how members can apply, and past winners.