SSE Scholarships for NWRC students from County Derry

Four North West Regional College (NWRC) students from County Derry have received a prestigious SSE Renewables Scholarship to support them in their studies.

Art students Rachel Smyth from Dungiven and Molly Madden from Limavady, Computing student Darraigh Murphy from Dungiven, and Journalism student Aine Patton from Greysteel, are among 27 students from the college’s five campuses who received a 2026 bursary at a special ceremony held this week.

Dr. Catherine O’Mullan, Director of Curriculum and Academic Standards at NWRC said: “It’s been eight years since our first cohort of Higher Education students received a Scholarship from SSE Renewables. Since then, almost 200 students have been supported in their studies through the scheme. Many of the students have now completed their studies and gone on to successful careers.

“At NWRC, we are committed to fostering innovation and creativity in the next generation of leaders. The college’s courses offer critical and transferable skills that our students will use beyond their years of study and into future careers. We hope to continue to work in partnership with SSE Renewables as we grow the workforce of the future.”

“Our thanks to SSE Renewables for their continued support to the college’s students who are studying for a future in key technological and creative industries critical for the growth of our economy. “

Vicky Boden - Senior Community Investment Manager for SSE commented: “We are delighted to again be able to support the students at North West Regional College with the SSE Scholarships.

“Investing in education is at the heart of SSE’s commitment to local communities in Northern Ireland, and it’s inspiring to see the ambition and potential of the students here today.

“Since 2004, the Fund has supported scholarships for over 500 students attending third-level education at Ulster University, South West College and of course here at North West Regional College.

“These scholarships not only ease financial pressures but also empower students to achieve their full potential, contributing to the future growth and prosperity of local communities. 

“To all of you that have been successful in gaining a scholarship we would like to wish you all the best in your studies and in all of your future endeavours."

The SSE Scholarship programme was created to help local students with their student fees and expenses whilst creating a pool of well-trained and experienced professionals, transforming career prospects in regional communities and positively impacting future generations.

The wind-powered scholarship programme is funded by the SSE Renewables Regional Fund for Slieve Kirk Wind Park and Tievenameenta Wind Farm, both owned and operated by SSE Renewables, as well as the Greencoat Renewables owned Slieve Divena II Wind Farm.

SSE is Northern Ireland’s largest renewable energy generator. Their scholarship fund supports students living close to the company’s wind farms in Tyrone, Derry, Fermanagh, and County Donegal and provides 50% funding support (up to £2500 per student) towards the cost of third-level fees for recipients commencing first-year studies in STEAM-associated subjects at partner colleges. 

NWRC offers a range of University Level Courses including: Level 6 Top Up degrees, Foundation Degrees, Higher National Diplomas and Certificates, Fully Funded Higher Level Apprenticeships, and Professional Qualifications. You can apply at www.nwrc.ac.uk/higher-education