The Scholarship

Before James died he expressed a wish that a scholarship be established for boys at Rathkeale College and Christ’s College, to have a Gap Year at Shrewsbury School. This would be to experience that defining year before an academic or vocational choice is made – often that choice is the one that sets the direction and perhaps charts the course for one’s approach to life. It was that year that defined James’s independence and maturity and in many ways equipped him with the strength and ability to face life’s difficult choices with courage. James was proud of his time at Shrewsbury and found his year very formative and he truly hoped other boys would benefit as he did.

The James Meikle Shrewsbury Scholarship Trust was established in January 2005 by Phillips Fox Solicitors and has attained charitable status with the NZ Department of Inland Revenue. The Trustees, who will administer the Trust and be involved with selecting the candidate are Susan Harte, Richard Pickering, and Grant Harper (Deputy Headmaster of Rathkeale College).

The fund was initiated with a contribution from James and has continued to grow as family, friends and colleagues from around the world generously contribute. The funds are held and invested with Craigs Investment Partners in Wellington, NZ.

The Scholarship will cover the return airfare to the UK, travel insurance and various expenses associated with the Scholarship year.