Three new sports bursaries launched with local clubs
UEA has announced the launch of three externally funded sports bursaries in collaboration with leading local sports clubs. These new awards support students competing in swimming, men’s rugby, and women’s football. The bursaries are part of formalised partnerships with North Walsham Rugby Football Club, Norwich City Women’s Football Club, and the City of Norwich Swimming Club (CONSC), strengthening the ties between UEA and the wider sporting community.
Swimming bursary in partnership with City of Norwich Swimming Club (CONSC)
The swimming bursary, offered in collaboration with CONSC, provides financial support for high-performance swimmers entering UEA. In addition to financial assistance—ranging from £500 to £1,500—students benefit from access to top-level coaching, athlete support services, and world-class facilities.
Alex Pinniger, Head Coach at CONSC, commented:
“This bursary is the icing on the cake. It enables swimmers to fund additional development opportunities such as international competitions, complementing the wider support they receive at UEA. We’re excited to support student-athletes on their journey.”
Rugby bursary in partnership with North Walsham RFC
The North Walsham RFC bursary reflects a long-standing and growing relationship between UEA and the club. It offers student-athletes the opportunity to play both BUCS university rugby and senior club rugby at the highest level in Norfolk.
Phil Anthony, Rugby Operations Director at North Walsham RFC, explained:
“We’ve developed a strong partnership with UEA, with shared coaching and a clear alignment of values. We’re delighted to support students like Archie Bryant, whose impact on the club has been significant. This bursary strengthens our shared vision for rugby development in the region.”
Women’s football bursary in partnership with Norwich City Women
The bursary scheme with Norwich City Women’s Football Club supports talented female footballers studying at UEA. The aim is to ensure that aspiring players are able to pursue their academic goals while developing as elite athletes.
Flo Allen, Head of Women’s Football at the club, said:
“Our partnership with UEA reflects a shared commitment to supporting female footballers as students, athletes, and individuals. With UEA’s strong academic environment and cultural support, we’re excited to grow this partnership and create more opportunities for talented women.”
Applying for support
Applications are open for both the new bursaries and existing uea+sport scholarships. These awards are available to students starting their higher education journey in September 2026 and beyond. For more information and how to apply, see here.
HALO Sponsorship
uea+sport is delighted to be working in partnership with Halo Graduate Scheme, who will be the official sponsors of our focus sport programme.
Halo is changing the rules of business – it’s not just about software but about setting a new standard for what a workplace can be. We can’t think of a better partner that is so closely aligned to the UEA’s ‘do different’ motto, and were so excited about the opportunity this presents for our graduates over coming years.
