We have always aimed to motivate students by setting goals and supporting those who need our help the most. We started the Compact award scheme in March 1989, based partly on the Boston (USA) Compact’s ‘Plan for Excellence'. We set out to encourage the?city of Hull?students to continue into full-time education after compulsory schooling.

In 2000 we introduced Achievement Awards as a result.

Compact governors decided to use half the income of the awards scheme to support needy students going to university when the government abolished maintenance grants in 1999. We awarded 16 university bursaries to Hull students in September 1999.

Each bursary is worth £2100 for those on a three-year course, and £1400 for two-year courses. Those on three-year courses receive cheques in September, January and May to the value of £300, £200 and £200.

We anticipated that companies would play a major part in the awards from the start – not only by providing the finance but also throughout the process from policy discussion, interviewing and developing relationships with recipients. Each company presents awards to successful candidates at the awards evening, where they may also arrange for the student to visit the company, take part in work experience, job shadowing or perhaps even some paid short-term work during holidays.

Our sponsors have provided over £1.5 million since the award scheme began in 1989. This continues to be a major tool in helping to raise standards and improve the city’s workforce.

Organisations currently supporting the Hull Compact Award Schemes include:

Aahuskarlshamn. UK Ltd.

 Ann Watson Trust.

 Cargill Plc.

Premier Class Education Services.

The Numburnholme Trust.

 Fenner Dunlop Europe Ltd.

 Hesslewood Children's Trust.

 William Jackson & Son.

 Hull and East Riding Charitable Trust.

 Princes Quay Shopping Centre Trust.

 University Of Hull.

 University of Lincoln.