This year the Trust awarded a record 46 bursaries to young Italians, aged between 18 and 25, to study in the UK. We eventually welcomed 40 students between February and October with 33 choosing to study in London and seven in Oxford.

The Trust continues its close relationship with Centre of English Studies where our students are very highly regarded by the teachers and principals.

The majority of our students come from le Marche, Emilia Romagna and Molise, but this year we have forged a new partnership, driven by trustee Ian Laing, with the British Institute of Florence. We had over 20 applicants from BIF with 5 bursaries being awarded. One of these five was a special bursary named after former trustee and fundraiser, Vanni Treves, and awarded to Lorenzo Gallorini, a student from an “Advantage School” in the Florence area. This bursary has been generously sponsored by Ian Laing and covers all of the student’s costs, including travel, tuition, accommodation and living expenses whilst in London. It has been agreed that the Vanni Treves Bursary will run for three years and then be reviewed.

Lorenzo’s stay was particularly poignant as Vanni’s widow Angela volunteered to be the Trust contact for Lorenzo during his stay. Lorenzo commented that his time in London had given him an incredible opportunity to gain some independence and self-confidence and that he would never forget the warm welcome he received from Angela. I was lucky enough to share dinner with Lorenzo and Angela on his penultimate night in London and it was clear that a strong bond had been forged between them both. As Lorenzo said as he left: “Angela, you will always be my English mother.”

The numerous testimonials we have received from our students are a testament to the core values set out by Keith Killby when he initiated the bursary scheme over 30 years ago: to educate young Italians and enable them to immerse themselves in a new culture and enrich their lives. Here are some examples of the student feedback:

Guglielmo Gallone, who studied at Oxford in June

“My wonderful stay in Wheatley comes to an end today! Saying it was a fantastic experience is an understatement.

“The host family welcomed me warmly: they were kind, helpful and hospitable in every way. I had my own bathroom, my room with all the comforts and the breakfast and dinner were excellent. We talked a lot about various topics and they gave me great suggestions for visits during this period.

“Most importantly, the school was fantastic. Academically, I had the opportunity to improve my English, expand my vocabulary and enhance my listening and writing skills. I obtained a C1 certificate after attending the advanced course from the beginning. On the human and social side, thanks to the many activities, I could interact with many people from all over the world: Saudi Arabia, Oman, Taiwan, Japan, Panama… I didn’t expect it, but wonderful friendships were born that we will all cherish!

“Meeting Anne Copley was a great moment to discuss the association and our situation.

“I wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for this extraordinary opportunity you have given me. I will always carry it with me.”

And from Valerio Garozzo, who studied in London in October.

“Before leaving for London I was really scared because I didn’t know anyone, in a huge new city and a language to learn. Once I arrived I met my family and I felt immediately at home, thanks to Ashley, who treated me like a son and I felt exactly like that. At school I made friends with absolutely everyone! And I tried to live this experience to its fullest because I really wanted to disconnect from ordinary life. I improved my English thanks to the wonderful and patient teachers and made friends from all over the world.
“I can safely say that this has been the most beautiful and constructive experience I have ever had and this month has created indelible memories that I will remember for the rest of my life. Thank you to the Monte San Martino Trust for this incredible opportunity”.
These, and many other similar comments are the reason why we work so hard to commit to fulfilling Keith’s wishes. His legacy lives on in so many Italian families who have benefited from an MSMT bursary, and why we will strive to offer a similar amount of bursaries in 2025.
Anyone wishing to apply can find out more information in our Student area.