Henderson Opportunity Fund

The Henderson Opportunity Fund (“the Fund”) has been made available to support as many eligible students as possible, who are engaged and committed to their studies, in achieving a positive outcome from their time studying in the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and The Built Environment at BCU.

The purpose of the Fund is to help students pursue opportunities which will support or complement their studies. If you are attending a full-time undergraduate Computing, Engineering or Built Environment course in the academic year 2024/25, you could be eligible to apply for an award of £500.

Funding for the Henderson Opportunity Fund has been generously provided by the Henderson Family Foundation.

Examples of opportunities the Fund could be used to support:

  • Work placements or study trips related to your course

  • Purchasing equipment, materials or software for your course

  • Supporting with travel costs to University or a course related placement or study trip

Complete the online application form and upload any supporting documents by the Fund closing deadline of 11.59pm on Friday 25 April 2025.

Frequently asked questions

 

How do I apply to the Fund?

You can apply to the Fund online using this application form. See a list of the full application form questions to help you prepare for making your online application.

 

Can I read the full terms and conditions?

 

How do you assess funding applications?

Applications will be reviewed by an assessment panel week commencing Thursday 1 May 2025.

Funding will be allocated based on how the opportunity requested will complement or enhance your studies, in conjunction with level of financial need, and applications from the following groups will be prioritised:

  • Students from low-income backgrounds 
  • Students from some of the most deprived neighbourhoods in England. This is based on your home address  
  • Students eligible for free school meals prior to joining the University 

 Limited funding is available, and not all eligible students will receive an award from the Fund.

 

What are the next steps after I submit my application to the Fund?

All completed applications with the relevant evidence submitted (a list of required evidence is provided on the application form) will usually be assessed and a decision issued within two working weeks of the Fund closing date. During busy periods, this may not be possible, but applicants will be advised accordingly. We may follow up with applicants for a short Teams call to further assess the criteria and eligibility.

 

How much funding is available?

A maximum of 50 awards of £500 will be made.

 

Which academic year does this apply to?

The Fund is available to first, second or third-year students enrolled in the 2024/25 academic year.

 

I am already receiving a Henderson Award, Bursary or Scholarship – can I still apply?

No. Students in receipt of a Henderson Award, Bursary or Scholarship are not eligible to apply.

 

How will the funding be paid?

The award will be paid in cash, directly into your bank account. Further details will be discussed with successful applicants.

 

When will I know if I have been successful?

We will respond to your application within two working weeks of the Fund’s closing date. During busy periods, this may not be possible, but applicants will be advised accordingly.

 

Can international students apply to the Fund?

No. International students are not eligible to apply to the Fund.

 

What will BCU do with my personal data?

To read how BCU processes and protects the personal data of people applying for or receiving donor programme places, please read the Privacy Notice for Donor Programme Applicants and Recipients

If you have any questions about the Henderson Opportunity Fund, or need assistance with your application, please contact gemma.corden@bcu.ac.uk