The Football Foundation Announces the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship and Professional Development Opportunities
By Sports Correspondent
The Football Foundation today announces funding and professional development opportunities through the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship with the University of Greenwich.
Honouring Stephen’s legacy and his passion for football and architecture, this initiative will prioritise Black students from low socioeconomic backgrounds, and those who are estranged or care experienced, looking to complete the Architecture Part 2 MArch course over two years, starting this September.
Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation said:
“Stephen Lawrence both loved football and dreamed of becoming an architect — someone who could shape the places where people live, gather, and thrive.
“This initiative is the perfect legacy, as we work to plan, design and construct facilities that target and support groups and communities who have faced barriers in terms of participation. This includes lower socio-economic groups and culturally and ethnically diverse communities. These facilities provide not only a great place to play but also a safe space for communities to come together, where people can meet and build friendships.
“Along with the funding, the recipient will have the opportunity to work with our team at the Football Foundation, attend all-team events, gain a real understanding of the grassroots football facility landscape. We’re excited to support the recipient in developing experience and skills within the field and build networks.”
Baroness Lawrence OBE said:
“I would like to express my appreciation for the Football Foundation’s support, it means a great deal to see this important scholarship in Stephen’s name at the University of Greenwich – an institution of special personal significance.
“As both an alumna and a former member of staff, I have witnessed first-hand the university’s ability to shape lives and open doors.
“The establishment of this scholarship in Stephen’s name marks a meaningful continuation of his legacy, providing opportunities for the next generation and reinforcing the vital role that education and sport can play in transforming communities.
“Through the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship, supported by the Football Foundation, Stephen’s legacy will continue to inspire and empower future generations, ensuring that his vision for equality, opportunity, and justice lives on.”
Natasha Vall, Pro Vice Chancellor, Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Greenwich, said:
“Established in Stephen Lawrence's name to honour his legacy, this scholarship specifically supports architecture students—the field Stephen aspired to study but was tragically denied the opportunity to pursue.
“Architecture is woven into the University of Greenwich's identity since its founding as Woolwich Polytechnic in 1890, and through its longstanding relationship with the Lawrence family, the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship creates a meaningful pathway for others to realise similar dreams.
“At the University of Greenwich, we believe in Education Without Boundaries, championing equality, diversity, and inclusion while empowering students to achieve their ambitions because of, not despite, their unique backgrounds and experiences.”
The fund was announced at Charlton Athletic FC’s Training Ground, which is also home to Charlton Athletic Community Trust and has received £350k in Football Foundation funding to support under-represented communities in and around Charlton to get more active.
Charlton's Vice-Chairman Paul Elliott CBE MBE said:
“This partnership between the University of Greenwich and the Football Foundation is a powerful example of what can be achieved when shared values and vision come together.
“It has been a personal honour to help bring these organisations together in Stephen Lawrence’s name - uniting his passion for football with our collective commitment to creating inspiring spaces and life-changing opportunities for young people. Through the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship, we not only honour his legacy, but actively build on it, empowering a new generation.”
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