Applications will not be opening this year for the 2026/27 cohort – please see the "current update" section to find out why
The John La Rose Award helps to break cycles of inequality by supporting marginalised young people from Haringey to access the same opportunities and outcomes as their more privileged peers. Named after John La Rose – political activist, poet, and founder of New Beacon Books, the first specialist Caribbean publishing company in the UK – this award invests in the potential of Haringey's young people.
What we do
JLRA offers:
- direct financial support to students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds
- access to mentorship, guidance and paid work experience opportunities (depending on availability)
100% of donations go straight to our students.
Our students
The award prioritises students from groups that are disproportionately underrepresented in higher education, including those with care experience, refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds, and young people with caring responsibilities.
Since its launch, JLRA has supported over 50 young people across more than 25 universities, studying a wide range of courses.
Current update
Due to recent budget constraints, we are unable to onboard a new cohort of students for the 2026/2027 academic year. This is an unfortunate development, especially given the high level of interest and need among eligible young people in Haringey. However, our commitment to the scheme and to the young people it serves remains strong. We are actively seeking external sponsors and donors to help us continue and expand this transformative initiative. With your support, we can ensure that no young person is left behind.
How you can help
To help our work, you can:
- sponsor a student: help fund a young person’s journey through higher education
- make a donation: every contribution helps us provide opportunities, resources, and experiences that enrich our students’ lives
- spread the word: help us grow our network of sponsors and advocates
Why partner with the JLRA?
By partnering with us you will:
- demonstrate your/your organisation’s commitment to equity and opportunity in Haringey
- be recognised as a community champion and be featured in promotional materials and events
- support a local initiative that uplifts and directly empowers young people
Whether you choose to remain anonymous or take an active role, your support will help us continue John La Rose’s legacy and invest in the future of Haringey.
Get involved
If you or your organisation would like to support JLRA, please contact the fairer education team.
JLRA is not just a bursary scheme, it is a commitment to educational justice, inspired by a legacy of activism and rooted in the belief that every young person deserves the chance to thrive.
Other funds
Other funding sources you can try include:
- The Tottenham Grammar School Foundation Somerset Undergraduate AwardExternal link for those who went to a state-maintained secondary school
- Scholarship Hub for information on UK scholarshipsExternal link
- BlackBullion for student money management and funding searchExternal link
Contact us if you have a question or want to know more about alternative support.