Why was the Charity set up?
The JTYAF was set up in 2008 to honour the memory of Lieutenant John Thornton RM, who sadly lost his life while serving with 40 Commando Royal Marines in Afghanistan.
What does your charity do?
We support young people by providing scholarships and bursaries to help them develop and progress their talents in education, sport, music, whatever their individual interest may be.
Who can apply for a scholarship or bursary?
Applicants must be under the age of 22 years and live in Dorset or Wiltshire.
Young people can apply through their school or organisation. A list of the schools and organisations that we support can be found on the ‘Our Work’ tab on our website. The application process for each organisation is detailed there too.
Can you apply if you don’t belong to any of the supported organisations?
We have a discretionary fund for young people who do not belong to any of our supported organisations.
These applications come directly to the JTYAF and are considered on a first come, first served basis by our trustees.
Decisions normally take about 2 weeks, and the applicant is notified directly.
What types of support are available?
We offer financial awards to assist with tuition fees, equipment, travel, or other education-related expenses.
What is the deadline for applications?
Each year the funds that we have allocated for awards are available until 31st December.
What information is needed in an application?
We ask for personal information together with full details of exactly what you would spend the award on. We ask how the award will support you and help you to develop, your ambitions for the future and whether you have done any fundraising yourself.
You will also need a letter or email of endorsement from your teacher/coach to support your application and if you are under 18 years, your parent will need to give their details and sign the form.
How are recipients selected?
Applications are assessed by the school or organisation that the young person belongs to and if considered to be suitable they are passed to the JTYAF.
The JTYAF is looking for indicators that the young person has courage, determination, shows cheerfulness in adversity, and is unselfish.
When will applicants hear back?
We aim to get our awards posted out within a few days of receiving the application but sometimes it can take longer. Discretionary applications take about 2 weeks.
What happens if an application is unsuccessful?
Any applications which aren’t agreed by the organisation concerned will not be forwarded to the JTYAF.
Can recipients share their stories or achievements?
Yes! We love hearing how our support has made a difference. Stories may be shared on our website.
Can we invite your team to speak at our school or event?
We’d love to consider it—please get in touch with the details.
