The Bending Spoons EmployAbility Computer Science Scholarship
About the Bending Spoons EmployAbility Computer Science Scholarship
Technology is synonymous with progress. Yet those who have a disability, neurodivergence, mental health or other long-term health condition encounter many obstacles to establishing a successful career in tech. That’s why we are so excited to be working with Bending Spoons on this scholarship, as part of their commitment to help and inspire students on their journey into the tech industry.
Bending Spoons is one of Europe’s leading tech companies. Giving back is at the heart of the Bending Spoons’ mission, and the company strives to deliver products and opportunities that help others. Adamant that a career in tech should be for anyone, Bending Spoons is committed to making the path into the industry a little more accessible.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Have a disability, neurodivergence, mental health or long term health condition. (These include dyslexia, dyspraxia, autism, ADHD, visual impairment, hearing impairment, diabetes, epilepsy, depression, anxiety disorders, and any other physical or mental health conditions)
- Intend to be enrolled in or accepted as a student in a Bachelors, or Masters programme at an accredited university in the U.K. or Europe for the 2024-2025 academic year
- Be studying computer science, computer engineering, informatics, or a closely related technical field
- Must be resident in Europe or the U.K. during their studies
- Demonstrate a strong academic record
- Have a clear passion for computer science
Application Process
Applicants will be asked to complete an online application via EmployAbility which includes:
- General background information (e.g. contact information and details about your current or intended university)
- Resume/CV
- Academic transcripts from your current and prior institutions (if you have earned a prior degree)
- One letter of reference from a professor, instructor, adviser or supervisor
- Responses to a series of questions about your passion for and ability in computer science
Recipients will be selected based on the overall strength of their essays and application materials compared to the pool of applicants as a whole. Please ensure that your chosen referees are aware of your application and are ready to supply you with the reference.
Application Questions
Passion for Computer Science
We would like to know a bit about you and your passion for computer science.
- Why is studying computer science important to you? (150-200 words)
- Are there any specific topics within computer science that interest or excite you, and why? (150-200 words)
- What do you hope to accomplish with your degree or the knowledge you gain from it? (150-200 words)
Technical Project
We would like to ask you questions about a technical project you have been involved in or a piece of research that you undertook, where your contribution and participation was key to its success.
When answering the questions, please remember that the computer science professional reviewing your application may not share the same technical expertise or knowledge of your particular research field. Therefore, please ensure you explain all technical terms and processes clearly.
Any evidence to support or illustrate your essay (e.g. graphs, diagrams, algorithms, sections of code etc.) can be uploaded in the ‘supporting documents’ section. Where you do provide such elements, please include the name of your evidence in square brackets in the appropriate place in your answer, for example [Mygraph1].
- What was the problem your project or research was trying to solve? (100-150 words)
- Was this undertaken as part of your university studies, an internship or work experience placement, or was it a personal project?
- What was your solution to the project or research? (100-150 words)
- What were the technical problems that you encountered? (100-150 words)
- What was the outcome of your project/learning from the project? (100-150 words)
- Was this a solo project or were you working as part of a group? If it was a group project, please state your personal involvement. (50 words)
- Do you consider this project technically challenging, innovative or both? Briefly explain why. (100-150 words)
How to Apply
Candidates should apply via EmployAbility’s website. You will not be able to apply directly via Bending Spoons.
Should you wish to discuss any aspect of the application process with EmployAbility, including mitigating circumstances which have affected your academic and/or work experiences, please contact us at bendingspoons@employ-ability.org.uk.
Terms and Conditions
The Bending Spoons EmployAbility Computer Science Scholarship is open to qualified students who meet the eligibility criteria. Disabled and neurodivergent students interested in computer science are strongly encouraged to apply. The intention of the scholarship award is that it be spent on tuition, fees, books, supplies and equipment required for the students’ classes at their primary university. Scholarship recipients must be enrolled as students for the 2024-2025 academic year. Enrollment will be verified after the winners are selected, and all scholarship payments will be made directly to the student. The award will be withheld for any scholar who does not or does not maintain the eligibility requirements. Selected recipients will receive instructions about the process for receiving the award. Failure to complete these steps before the deadline will result in disqualification. Bending Spoons employees are not eligible.. Persons who are (1) residents of embargoed countries, (2) ordinarily resident in embargoed countries, or (3) otherwise prohibited by applicable export controls and sanctions programs may not apply for this scholarship.
Other Programmes
We run first year, internship, and graduate programmes, as well as law vacation schemes and training contract opportunities, with our inclusive employer partners. Applying through us, you can be confident that you will be competing on a level playing field, and will be provided with full support. You can also benefit from our employer insight days and skills workshops to maximise your chances of success.
Got questions?
Get in touch to find out how EmployAbility can help. Students and graduates can take advantage of our service for free by registering with us.