We are delighted to announce that the UK Electronics Skills Foundation (UKESF) has been awarded a prestigious Princess Royal Training Award 2025, our second time receiving this national honour.

The Award recognises organisations across the UK that have created outstanding training and skills development programmes which result in exceptional benefits for individuals and businesses. UKESF has once again been recognised for our flagship Scholarship Scheme, which combines professional education, employability training, and paid work placements with leading employers for undergraduates studying Electronics at universities throughout the UK.

The Award acknowledges the long-term success and continued growth of the programme. Since launching in 2010, the UKESF has awarded over 900 Scholarships, with 90% of graduates going on to work in Electronics and Technology roles.

Electronics, especially semiconductor design and manufacture, is a strategically important and growing sector of the UK economy. However, the demand for capable graduates continues to outstrip supply. The UKESF Scholarship Scheme addresses this challenge by providing wrap-around support and a structured development pathway for students.

Key elements of the Scheme include:

· Paid employment through flexible work placements

· Skills training that complements academic study

· Industry insight and networking opportunities

· Confidence building through outreach and public engagement

The programme is also delivering impact on diversity:

· 25% of current Scholars are female (industry average ~11%)

· 47% are from Black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds

· 66% attended state schools

· 21% are the first in their family to go to university

Stewart Edmondson, CEO of UKESF, said:

“To be honoured for a second time with a Princess Royal Training Award is amazing. It is wonderful recognition of the sustained impact of our Scheme. It reflects the dedication of everyone involved our team, our university partners, and the employers who sponsor our amazing Scholars. Together, we are building the next generation of Electronics Engineers.”

The Award ceremony will take place later this year, when UKESF representatives will meet Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal to receive the Award.

We will hold the Princess Royal Training Award 2025 for three years.

If you would like to learn more about our Scholarship Scheme or how to get involved, please contact Lucy Edmondson or Jess Steele at [email protected]

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