Martha Engineers Her Way to Success

Martha Dunsmore, a Lower Sixth pupil at St Peter’s School, York, has received the prestigious award of Arkwright Scholar in recognition of her outstanding work in design and technology. 

Martha was awarded the scholarship following a rigorous selection process designed to identify the highest-calibre school students in the UK who have a strong academic and practical ability in technical subjects.  

Arkwright Engineering Scholarships exist to identify, inspire and nurture future leaders in Engineering. The Scholars benefit from a coveted two-year Arkwright Engineering Scholarship, which is widely respected by academia and industry, as well as receiving a financial award of £300 per year to help with the cost of materials, equipment and activities to optimise their studies towards a career in Engineering. 

Through the Scholarship, Martha will gain access to a wide range of enrichment events and opportunities such as Connect Days, work experience, summer schools and technical lectures. In addition, Martha will receive a dedicated mentor to support her through the Scholarship, and potential Undergraduate Engineering Scholarships as her career progresses.  

In preparation for her application Martha created independent investigation into the Active Air Management System on the McLaren Elva. Intuitively, it seems the technology would have an adverse impact on fuel efficiency and this project will form the basis of her Extended Project Qualification this year.  

Martha’s investigations will be funded by the financial award from her Scholarship, which is being sponsored by ABB, a leading technology company and the Official Title Partner of the FIA Formula E Championship. 

Martha, who is currently studying A Levels in Maths, Further Maths, Physics, English Literature and History, hopes to pursue a career in motorsport engineering. Martha said: “I was really excited when I heard the news. The scholarship is a huge opportunity which opens up lots of doors into real world engineering experiences.” 

Mrs Danielle Staniforth, Head of Design and Technology at St Peter’s School, said: “Martha has solidified her position within the school community as a fantastic ambassador for bright young women in S.T.E.M. Congratulations to Martha on her outstanding achievement.” 

Mr Jeremy Walker, Head Master of St Peter's School, said: "I am so impressed with Martha’s success.  The Arkwright Scholarship is a prestigious recognition of excellence and potential and I look forward to seeing all that Martha will go on to achieve."

Any pupils who are considering applying for an Arkwright Scholarship in the coming year should contact Mrs Staniforth to express their interest or come to a meeting on Friday lunchtime (8 October) in Beck at 1pm.

Pupils who are interested in the Scholarship scheme should also sign up to Makerspace, where they can work on projects to support their application. Please contact Mrs Staniforth to find out more.