Case Studies
Applications are open to organisations and individuals
Here are some of the organisations previous grants have been awarded to:
2021 - 2026
Quest Karate Club, Cowling Primary School, Lothersdale Primary School, Glusburn Primary School, Craven College, South Craven Primary, Skipton Musical Theatre, Grassington Primary, Water Street Primary School, SELFA, Kildwick Primary School, Brougham Street Nursery, Upper Wharfedale School, Gargrave Primary School, The Skipton Academy, Embsay Primary School, Brougham Street Nursery, Embsay/Easby Pre-School,
2018 - 2020
Glusburn Primary School, Boyle & Petyt School, Cononley Primary School, Brooklands School, Ermysteds.
Case Study 1
Musician Anna Beresford
Musician Anna Beresford successfully applied for a grant from Skipton Mechanics Institute to help her pursue her studies at the Royal Northern College of Music.
Eight years later she has a portfolio career as a conductor, educator and music librarian.
She said: "I am hugely grateful to the Mechanics Institute for giving their support to pursue my love of music which has led to the career and life I have today"
Photo: Jamie Chapman
Case Study 2
Upper Wharfedale Schooly #2
Big Dig Cravenology Transition Project
The aim was to benefit young people in the Craven district primary catchment area by participation in a week-long heritage project in the Yorkshire Dales National Parks to promote awareness of the unique environment and heritage of The Dales. The project helped children settle into their new secondary school and gave them an opportunity to work and socialise with existing teachers and students in a worthwhile heritage project. Activities had an emphasis on learning and the summer school participants engaged in a wide range of fun activities including excavation of a historical site, metal detecting, nature trail and geographical surveying. The work continues through the School’s archaeology club.
Case Study 3
SELFA
SELFA trip on the Polar Express
Selfa were awarded funding to take a group of children on the Polar Express at Bolton Abbey, creating a magical, inclusive day out for children, young people and families experiencing vulnerabilities.
The trip forms part of the charity's wider programme to support wellbeing, reduce isolation and build confidence, giving youngsters the chance to socialise, explore and make lasting memories in a safe environment.
Selfa is grateful to its funders and volunteers for making these opportunities possible, which help strengthen families and foster resilience across the local community.
Case Study 4
The Skipton Academy
£600 grant in December 2022
The grant was awarded to re-stock and update the shelving.
The Skipton Mechanics trustees were invited to visit the newly stocked library and heard from the pupils on how much the new space has increased their enjoyment of reading.
The staff commented what an improvement the shelving and updated books has made to the pupils providing a calm, quieter space to use throughout the day.
Case Study 5
Gargrave Primary School
New Boooks and Furniture for School Library
Gargrave Primary School recieved a grant from Skipton Mechanics Institute to buy new books and furniture in their new purpose built library.
Headteacher Sarah Peel commented "The grant we recieved from Skipton Mechanics has truly enhanced the library environment. To see the children enjoying the wide range of books in this purpose built space is uplifting'
