4 March 2026
Students from across the University had the chance to showcase their work during a trip to London, all made possible through one of the University’s biggest supporters
Students from across the University of Sunderland had the chance to showcase their work during a trip to London, all made possible through one of the University’s biggest supporters.
Nine recipients of the Mike Davies Scholarship travelled down to London to meet with internationally renowned architect Mike Davies CBE.
Students presented their work at the Leadenhall building, which is home to the architectural firm RSHP, of which Mike was a founding director.
Mike Davies CBE has over 40 years of involvement in projects such as the Pompidou Centre in Paris, Lloyd’s of London, the Millennium Dome and Heathrow Terminal 5.
Mike said: “I was delighted to host such a creative group of University of Sunderland students. Their individual work highlights the diverse range of ideas, individual creative projects and the increasing confidence that they have developed.
“The session was a real learning experience for the newer students. The joy of each student developing an idea was palpable - and good course tutoring showed through.
“The three-year course is rich and uplifting, and the students’ forward progress and growing confidence was a delight to see.”
Through Mike’s support, the scholarship offers recipients up to £2,000 of funding for each year of continuous study and tailored mentorship from Mike during their studies, which includes an annual trip to London to meet him in person.
William Mason, who studies Graphic Design at the University, said: "The Mike Davies scholarship has been an amazing benefit throughout my time with the University, and I feel privileged to have a place in it.
“The scholarship itself not only provided financial benefit, but invaluable advice from a renowned designer and architect, and relationships that will last many years. Many scholarships provide only financial assistance, but the Mike Davies Scholarship provides much more.
"I recommend anyone studying with the University to take advantage of the opportunities presented to them, as if I hadn't applied to this scholarship in my first year, I would have missed a great experience.”
During their trip, the Mike Davies Scholars also had the chance to visit a range of exhibitions both at the V&A and Kensington Gardens to help inform their own creative practice.
Patience Stewart, who studies Animation and Games Art at the University, said: “Having never visited London before, I was surprised at how big and exciting the city is in person rather than seeing it on a screen.
“Since it was my first time in London, I was unsure what there was to see and do, but I genuinely enjoyed visiting the V&A museum as one of my favourite things to draw are old statues, so I made sure I took loads of photos.
“I was really grateful to meet Mike and hear what he had to say about all of our work and found him super inspiring.”
Ruby-Jean Richardson, who studies Fine Art at the University, said: “The Mike Davies Scholars Trip was an amazing and valuable experience that I’m so grateful I got to attend.
“I loved getting to meet with other creatives and experiencing London as an artist with them. Mike’s mentoring was really insightful, and he made me feel really proud of my work, and the funding he’s awarded me is really going to help me expand my creative practice throughout my degree.”
Applications are open for the Art and Design Global Challenges Scholarship at the University, made possible through Mike Davies CBE. Find out more about the scholarship here.
Find out more about how giving back to the University can help transform lives here.