Five Henderson Scholarships open doors to Computing, Engineering and Built Environment degrees for JCC students
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 10TH FEBRUARY 2025
Joseph Chamberlain College students progressing to Birmingham City University in September 2026 will have access to five Henderson Scholarships, supporting entry into Computing, Engineering and Built Environment degrees and helping widen access to higher education and careers in high-demand sectors.
Each scholarship is worth £10,000 per year for three years, covering tuition fees on selected undergraduate courses. In total, Birmingham City University has made 15 Henderson Scholarships available nationally, with five specifically allocated to Joseph Chamberlain College students.
The scholarships are funded by BCU graduate and Slack co-founder Cal Henderson and his wife Rebecca through the Henderson Family Foundation. They are designed to support UK students from under-represented groups and lower socio-economic backgrounds to progress into technology and engineering-related careers. Alongside the scholarships, eligible students may also apply for a Henderson Access Bursary, a one-off £2,000 award.
Supporting progression into high-demand careers
From September 2026, Birmingham City University will introduce a new approach to Engineering degrees, focused on developing practical skills and real-world problem-solving. Courses are delivered in focused blocks, allowing students to concentrate on one module at a time, with assessment based on applied competency rather than traditional exams.
Computing students can access industry-aligned programmes including Computer Science, Cyber Security, Games and Sound Engineering, supported by modern facilities and live project opportunities.
Built Environment courses prepare students for careers in construction and property, with pathways including Architectural Technology, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying and Real Estate.
Tony Day, Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Joseph Chamberlain College, said:
“This partnership reflects our commitment to education for all. Widening participation and supporting progression are responsibilities that guide our work every day. As the only sixth form college in Birmingham and Solihull rated Outstanding by Ofsted, with student achievement among the highest in England, we see what young people can achieve when opportunity meets ambition. Working alongside Birmingham City University allows us to strengthen pathways into higher education and ensure our students are well prepared for the future.”
Becky Homer, Associate Assistant Principal (STEM), added:
“For many students, the cost of higher education can feel like a barrier before they’ve even begun. These scholarships help remove that obstacle, allowing talent and hard work to take centre stage. Across our STEM provision, we see every day the potential young people have to shape the future, whether in engineering, computing or the built environment. This opportunity gives our students the confidence to take the next step, knowing they are supported as they move into higher education and careers that genuinely make a difference.”
On-campus support and key dates
Eligible Joseph Chamberlain College students who had submitted UCAS applications were invited to attend a Henderson Scholarship launch event on 26 January 2026, which provided an overview of the scholarships and application process, followed by opportunities to speak directly with staff from Joseph Chamberlain College and Birmingham City University.
Further support includes:
- 12 February – Birmingham City University representatives attending JCC’s Academic Parents’ Evening
- 25 February – On-site BCU drop-in application support session for students
- 22 March 2026 – Deadline for Henderson Scholarship and Bursary applications
Information will also be shared via the upcoming JCC student and parent newsletters.
How to apply
To be eligible, students must:
- Secure a place on an approved full-time Computing, Engineering or Built Environment degree.
- Hold a confirmed offer once Level 3 qualifications (A Levels, BTEC or equivalent) are awarded.
- Complete the Henderson Scholarship or Bursary application form by 22 March 2026.
Full details of eligible courses and application guidance will be shared and provided to all eligible Joseph Chamberlain College students.
Press Contact:
Marketing Team
Joseph Chamberlain College
Email: jccmarketing@jcc.ac.uk
Phone: 0121 446 2200