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The opportunity to go to university can be life-changing, but unfortunately for some it can be beyond their reach due to social or economic circumstances.

Together, we are changing this.  Through the Higher Education Without Barriers Fund, Northumbria University provide a range of financial initiatives, mental health and wellbeing services and community-based projects to help academically talented students study and succeed regardless of their social or economic circumstances.

Peter Rolton, an Alumnus of Northumbria University champions education and mentorship alongside continuous development “It’s important that you give back, I’ve had lots of opportunities in life, it is intrinsic that you keep it going, that we help and support the next generation to kickstart their career”.

As many university students across the country come to the end of the academic year and are now enjoying their summer break, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the success our Rolton Engineering Scholarships with Northumbria University.

Indiana Eldon, a current automotive engineering student has benefitted both financially and professionally from the Fund, she’s been able to access valuable networking opportunities and connect with like-minded peers alongside receiving financial support.

 “The Higher Education Without Barriers Fund has supported me, not only financially but personally.  Having Peter as my mentor has helped me secure work experience with Rolton and placement opportunities enabling me to grow professionally whilst studying.

Receiving this scholarship has motivated me to stay focused on my studies, reflected in my strong exam and coursework results. It also enabled me to rejoin the university swim team, which has greatly benefited my mental and physical well-being. The mentoring from Peter has been invaluable, helping me secure a job placement and complete a rewarding week of work experience Rolton, where I explored various departments and took on CAD and research tasks.

The scholarship continues to boost my confidence as I consider integrated master’s options and future career opportunities. I aim to keep pushing myself academically and professionally, knowing I have Peter’s guidance and support”.

Lena Ghalleb BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering hopes to achieve a First Class Honours through the Rolton scholarship; graduating in this year.

“Receiving the Rolton Engineering Scholarship has been incredibly supportive throughout this academic year. With rising rent costs, the funding has made a significant difference to help relieve my financial pressure and allowing me to fully dedicate myself to my studies without needing to seek part time work. Because of this I’ve been able to maintain strong academic performance, consistently achieving high 2:1s and Firsts.

I also recently completed my dissertation and received a First from internal moderation, which is currently pending confirmation. The scholarship has genuinely enhanced my Northumbria University experience and enabled me to pursue my goals with greater confidence and focus. I’m so grateful for all the support Rolton has been providing me throughout my university studies”.

Our scholarship partnership with Northumbria University is an excellent opportunity for the next generation of engineers to benefit through funding, mentorship and work experience. It’s an honour to give back, to inspire and change lives.

Peter Rolton said: “We’re so proud of the achievements and all the hard work that our scholarship students have put into their studies this year. The opportunity to support students through our scholarship is a pleasure and an honour. We recognise the power and importance of diversity in the workplace and we’re proud to provide the Rolton Engineering Scholarships in partnership with the forward-thinking team at Northumbria University.”

Watch our fantastic video production in collaboration with Northumbria University Alumni Association which features Peter and Indiana.

We are excited to reveal who will start their university journey and mentorship with Northumbria University and Rolton in August – good luck!

 

News

Darcy Edwards joins Built Environment Futures Assembly as a Young Leader

5 October 2026

We are delighted to announce that Darcy Edwards, Executive Officer to the Chairman at Rolton, has joined BEFA as a Young Leader. The appointment builds on Peter Rolton’s position on BEFA’s Strategic Advisory Board, giving Rolton a unique opportunity to contribute at two critical levels: through established industry leadership and through the experience, priorities, and fresh ideas of the next generation.

Lift at the Open University

Rolton strengthens vertical transportation division with strategic appointment of senior consultant.

17 August 2026

We are delighted to welcome Krzysztof Mielnik to the Rolton team as senior consultant for vertical transportation (VT).

Krzysztof’s appointment marks the next step in the rapid growth of our recently launched independent Vertical Transportation consultancy. Led by industry expert Tim Piggott, our dedicated VT team provides comprehensive expertise across the entire lifecycle of advanced lift technology from design and construction to commissioning, handover, and ongoing operational support.

Rolton contributes to new 2030 built environment workforce planning report

10 June 2026

Rolton is pleased to have contributed to the newly launched industry report, ‘Built Environment Strategic Workforce Planning for 2030’.

The comprehensive publication stems from the latest INSPIRE event hosted by the Built Environment Futures Assembly (BEFA). This powerful leadership forum was established by the University of the Built Environment (UBE) to break down professional silos, spark collaboration, and drive excellence across engineering, construction, and real estate.