The Anna Plowden Trust: Scholarship in Memory of Robert Shepherd
The Anna Plowden Trust offers grants towards the fees for attending a full-time conservation training course in the UK. We accept applications from conservators who wish to embark on a career in conservation as well as conservators who wish to broaden their formal training by attending a course for at least one year.
The courses must prepare students for careers in the conservation of movable heritage (e.g., paintings, textiles, archaeological objects, etc.) and buildings (stained glass, wall paintings).
There are no exemptions for courses dealing with the conservation of non-movable heritage (e.g. buildings).
Please note that if a grant is made, the funds will be paid to the institution at which the student is enrolled.
Routledge, Taylor and Francis Group, one of the Trust’s sponsors, may offer a free subscription to a journal to successful applicants.
Scholarship recipients are required to provide a report on their progress along with good-quality images within two months of the end of the academic year.
The application deadline, downloadable application form, and further information can be found below.
Due to heavy oversubscription, applicants should keep in mind that we usually give preference to applicants who intend to make their careers in the UK.
About Robert Shepherd Scholarship
In memory of the late Robert Shepherd, a well-known picture conservator, the Anna Plowden Trust will administer a fund that provides an annual scholarship to a student interested in painting conservation.
Download and submit our Scholarship application form by the deadline indicated below.
Scholarships will be awarded up to £3,000 (which is slightly higher than our usual annual scholarship).
In addition to reporting requirements, the successful candidate may be required to present at a meeting of the British Association of Picture Conservator Restorers.
Applying for the Robert Shepherd Scholarship will not adversely affect your chances of securing one of the much more numerous Plowden Scholarships.
All eligible applicants will be considered for either a Shepherd Scholarship or a Plowden Scholarship.
June 5th 2026 is the deadline for the 2026/24 academic year
FAQs
1. What is the Scholarship in Memory of Robert Shepherd?
The Scholarship in Memory of Robert Shepherd is a special award administered by the Anna Plowden Trust to support students studying paintings (easel painting) conservation in the UK. It was created in honour of Robert Shepherd, a respected picture conservator, and provides financial support for training in this specialist field.
2. Who is eligible to apply for the Robert Shepherd Scholarship?
Applicants must be students enrolled on a painting conservation training programme in the UK or planning to study in this field. It is specifically aimed at those pursuing professional training in easel/paintings conservation, and applicants are typically expected to intend to build a career in conservation practice in the UK.
3. How much funding does the scholarship provide?
The scholarship offers an award of up to £3,500 per year, which is slightly higher than the Trust’s standard scholarships. The funds are usually paid directly to the student’s training institution to cover tuition-related costs.
4. Do I need to apply separately for the Robert Shepherd Scholarship?
No. Applicants do not need a separate application. You only need to apply using the Anna Plowden Trust standard application form and indicate that you wish to be considered for the Robert Shepherd Scholarship. All eligible applicants are automatically considered.
Download our application form below to submit your application: Click here to apply
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