Students from across the North and North East of England gathered for an event celebrating academic achievement and careers in the energy sector.
The 2026 Dogger Bank Scholarship Day was held at the Dogger Bank Wind Farm operations and maintenance base in South Shields.
Scholars took part in tours, discussions and first-hand insight into the offshore wind industry.
The scheme supports students studying STEM‑related subjects in higher education from South Tyneside, Redcar and Cleveland, and East Riding of Yorkshire.
Financial support from the programme helps students focus on their studies by easing financial pressures.
Harry, a scholarship recipient from Redcar and Cleveland, said: "It’s been fantastic to see behind the scenes of the vessels and meet the people who make everything happen.
"Seeing the boat up close really gives you an appreciation for the effort and expertise involved in producing energy and making it available for people – it’s been an amazing experience."
The event aimed to connect academic learning with real-world energy production and highlight how education underpins the UK’s future STEM workforce.
Tiana, a scholar from South Tyneside, said the support has been life-changing.
She said: "In my first year, I was alternating between crutches and a wheelchair, which meant part-time work simply wasn’t an option.
"The support I’ve received has made a huge difference, it’s allowed me to move out in my third year, gain independence, and focus on my studies, knowing my accommodation costs are covered.
"That peace of mind has been invaluable."
Scott, another recipient from South Tyneside, said the scholarship has directly improved his academic experience.
He said: "The support has had a real impact on me academically.
"It’s meant I haven’t had to work long hours alongside my studies, allowing me to properly focus on and appreciate my degree.
"As a student living away from home, that support has made a huge difference."
Will, from East Riding of Yorkshire, explained how the scheme has helped him manage the demands of university life.
He said: "With such a high workload, taking on a part-time job while at Cambridge is next to impossible.
"Being awarded the scholarship has provided some very welcome assistance to that financial burden.
"Visiting the base also gave me a great insight into the behind-the-scenes parts of the project.
"It’s incredible how much more effort goes into keeping things running smoothly than you might otherwise think."
During the visit, scholars toured the purpose-built O&M base that will play a critical role in operating Dogger Bank, which will become the world’s largest offshore wind farm upon completion.
Kay Doragh, community investment manager at Dogger Bank Wind Farm, said the event was about more than just celebration.
Ms Doragh said: "It’s been a pleasure to host the Scholarship Celebration Day for the second year and welcome our scholars to the Dogger Bank O&M base.
"This day is about more than celebrating achievements, it’s about empowering students and recognising their potential.
"Each of our scholarship recipients represents the future of the UK’s STEM sectors, and it’s inspiring to see the impact they are already beginning to make."
The event also reinforced Dogger Bank Wind Farm’s ongoing commitment to supporting communities closest to the project.
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The scheme aims to build a pipeline of STEM talent by helping students from the region move into science, technology, engineering and maths careers.
The scholarship scheme will continue annually, offering 30 further education scholarships each year to local students.
In addition to the scholarship programme, Dogger Bank Wind Farm has pledged a further £26 million in direct investment to support STEM education and grassroots community projects.
