Ayrshire College student Rhian Mitchell has been selected for Scotland’s Winning Students 100 scholarship programme after a successful season competing on the international athletics stage.

Rhian, who studies HNC Uniformed and Emergency Services, will receive support through the 2026–27 programme to help balance his education with training and competition.

The Kilmarnock Harriers athlete represented Great Britain and Northern Ireland at the European Under-18 Championships this summer and won five medals across the Scottish Under-18 and Under-20 Championships.

Behind those achievements is a family whose passion for athletics is matched by a strong connection with Ayrshire College.

Rhian’s parents, Kevin and Gillian, coach at Kilmarnock Harriers, while older brothers Ally and Logan also compete. Kevin, Ally and Logan are former Ayrshire College Sport and Fitness students who progressed to university.

For Rhian, that shared experience brings encouragement, understanding and some friendly sibling rivalry.

Rhian said:

Having my family involved in athletics means there’s always someone who understands the training and competition. My brothers and I support each other, but we’re competitive too, which helps push us on.
Being selected for Winning Students 100 is a great opportunity to keep developing as an athlete while working towards my qualification.

Backed by sportscotland and the Scottish Funding Council, Winning Students 100 provides financial assistance and support to help talented athletes combine further or higher education with high-performance sport.

Kevin Mitchell, Rhian's dad said: 

There’s friendly rivalry, especially when the boys compete against each other, but they want to see each other succeed. We’re proud of what Rhian has achieved and pleased that this scholarship will help him continue with both his sport and his education.

Jennifer Anderson, Assistant Principal, Skills and Innovation at Ayrshire College, said:

We are delighted to see Rhian recognised through the Winning Students 100 programme. His selection reflects the dedication, commitment and talent he brings to his studies and sport.
What makes this success particularly special is the Mitchell family’s strong connection with Ayrshire College. We congratulate Rhian and look forward to following his continued progress.

Explore courses and find your own next step at www.ayrshire.ac.uk.