Royal College students to receive scholarships courtesy of Burberry - London - News - Evening Standard
       

Royal College students to receive scholarships courtesy of Burberry

At the luxury brand Burberry, Christopher Bailey has transformed a designer classic into must-have cool, as epitomised by the models Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Eddie Redmayne.

Now, the company's chief creative officer aims to sprinkle his fashion fairy dust on a new generation of British style-makers with a scholarship scheme at the Royal College of Art.

Marking his 10th anniversary with the business and the 175th anniversary of the college where he trained, Burberry is to back about 25 design students over the next decade in the largest corporate scholarship programme in the RCA's history.

The support will include help with fees and the offer of iPads to aid studies, along with two-week work placements with the company.

Bailey, 40, received a scholarship himself from the family of the late fashion designer Bill Gibb during his time at the college whose former students include David Hockney and James Dyson.

Announcing the long-term partnership today, Bailey said the Burberry Design Scholarships were a "natural evolution" of the close ties with the college where is now an honorary fellow. He wanted to support the designers of tomorrow in the same way that he was helped to complete his fashion training before embarking on a career with Donna Karan, Gucci and now Burberry.

"I can say without question I would not be where I am today had it not been for that support, not only the financial assistance but the guidance that is so crucial at a stage of your life where every decision makes a huge impact on your future."

Dr Paul Thompson, RCA rector, said the scheme would help the college continue to produce "outstanding creative talent", adding: "Christopher dedicates so much of his time to students and we are privileged to have his insight and experience."

The announcement comes as the capital's top designers gear up for the start of London Fashion Week on Friday. Designers showing their autumn/winter collections include Stella McCartney, Nicole Farhi, Paul Smith, Matthew Williamson and Anya Hindmarch.

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