University student Lillie Buckley has been awarded a £4,500 funding boost from one of the UK’s oldest friendly societies, helping to ease the financial pressures of student life.
The 18-year-old from Bingham began her studies in Veterinary Science at the University of Bristol in September 2024. She is a recipient of the Oddfellows’ First Degree Course Educational Award—a non-repayable bursary—and was selected based on merit from applicants within the Society’s national membership.
Lillie, a former pupil of Toot Hill School, will receive £900 annually over the five-year course. She plans to use the funding to purchase a new laptop for her university work and cover travel expenses for work placements, which are an essential part of her studies.
A member of the Oddfellows’ Nottingham Trent Branch, Lillie expressed her gratitude:
“When I found out I would be receiving the funding, I was extremely happy and honoured to have been chosen. I want to say a huge thank you to the Oddfellows, as this will help support me throughout my degree, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
“I am loving the course so far. We’ve learned lots of interesting things, including anatomy, physiology, and animal handling.
“In the future, I would like to be a small animal vet, but I’m keeping an open mind as I love cows!”
Lillie added that the funding has also allowed her to join the University’s church bell-ringing society, where she recently competed and won a competition.
Karen Pye-Smith, Secretary for the Oddfellows’ Nottingham Trent Branch, commented:
“We’re glad to support Lillie in the next step of her education journey, especially given the current cost of living challenges, which can be particularly difficult for students.
“She has a bright future, and we couldn’t be more proud of her achievements so far.”
The Oddfellows’ First Degree Course Educational Award supports students from its membership heading to university for the first time. Members of the Society benefit from a wide range of offerings, including online and in-person social events, care and welfare support, advice, and a travel club.
To learn more about the Oddfellows’ Educational Awards and the Society’s services, visit www.oddfellows.co.uk.
