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Nominations are now open for the Dennis Canavan Scholarship, with a financial award available for one deserving young person in the Falkirk area. 

Each year the scholarship awards £500 to a deserving pupil pursuing a full time course in further or higher education, to help with the costs of studies.

Nominations are invited from secondary schools and community organisations across the Falkirk area.

About the scholarship

Set up in 2008, the scholarship was established in recognition of Dennis Canavan’s remarkable political contribution to the communities of Falkirk.

One of Scotland’s longest-serving parliamentarians, Mr Canavan retired in May 2007 after 33 years of representing Falkirk West both at Westminster and Holyrood.

Selfless service

The Scholarship will make a one-time award of £500 to a young person who is attending school, who lives in the Falkirk Council area and who has given notable service to others, for example:

  • Voluntary work
  • Charity sponsorship
  • Sports coaching
  • Caring for others

Last year’s winner was Braes High student Jack Gunton, who won thanks to his voluntary work, mentoring and by "immersing himself in the life of the school”.

Speaking about the scholarship, Dennis Canavan said:

“It is my firm belief that education should not just be for self-fulfilment but also for helping other people.

“I therefore hope that the Dennis Canavan Scholarship will encourage young people to reach their full potential so that their talents will benefit the wider community.”

How to nominate

You can nominate a young person by completing the nomination form and returning to our Civic Events team by email: civic.events@falkirk.gov.uk  

Anyone from a secondary school or community organisation can nominate a young person.  

Nominations for the scholarship can be submitted until 30 April 2022.