ScotlandIS, the national voice of the Scottish tech sector, has announced a new partnership with Saturday School Ltd, a tutoring organisation, to launch The ScotlandIS Scholarship. The scholarship is aimed at empowering young people from Glasgow and The West to shape, change and drive Scotland’s digital economy.
What is the scholarship about?
The scholarship will support 12 ScotlandIS Scholars from Glasgow and The West in securing their National 5 Maths qualification. This support includes six weekly lessons in National 5 Maths at Saturday School in The Glasgow Academy, attendance at The National 5 Maths Grade Booster Day to prepare for the final exam and unlimited online support from Saturday School’s fully qualified maths teachers.
Successful candidates will also get the opportunity to meet and learn from senior leaders in Scotland’s digital sector. ScotlandIS Scholars who complete the programme will have the opportunity to be fast tracked into further education and will be offered a place on a relevant course at either Glasgow Clyde College or City of Glasgow College. Courses accessible through the scholarship include NCs, NQs and HNDs in a variety of topics ranging from cyber security and software engineering to esports and computer game design.
Why is this important?
According to the most recent ScotlandIS Technology Industry Survey, 81% of Scottish tech businesses reported they’re likely to recruit university graduates in the next 12 months, as they seek to circumvent a technology skills gap that threatens to curtail the growth of the sector in Scotland.
ScotlandIS CEO, Karen Meechan, said: “We hope, by giving the 12 ScotlandIS Scholars this opportunity, we’ll be supporting some of the industry’s future leaders to take their first steps towards a long and successful career. Helping to cultivate the next generation of Scottish tech talent is a key part of what ScotlandIS does and we look forward to working alongside Saturday School to deliver a positive and valuable experience for the young people selected.”
Graeme Rough, owner and director of Saturday School Ltd said: “We are proud to be partnering with ScotlandIS to launch this scholarship. By working directly with those sitting at the heart of the sector, we can better prepare the next generation to start building a future working in Scotland’s digital economy.”
How can I apply?
The application process for The ScotlandIS Scholarship is open until 31 January 2024. To apply, you need to:
- Be aged between 14 and 18
- Live in Glasgow or The West
- Have an interest in maths or STEM subjects
- Have access to a computer or tablet
- Be willing to attend Saturday School lessons twice a week for six weeks
You can find more information about how to apply on Saturday School’s website.
What are some other resources for learning about tech?
If you are interested in learning more about tech or pursuing a career in this field, there are many other resources available online. For example:
- Scottish Enterprise offers funding opportunities for businesses that want to develop new products or services using technology.
- Business Gateway provides advice and guidance for start-ups and small businesses on how to access finance, markets and networks.
- Scottish Government supports teachers with professional development opportunities on how to use technology effectively in education.
- Skills Development Scotland helps individuals find courses that match their interests and goals.
- Edinburgh Napier University offers various programmes that combine academic study with practical work experience in tech sectors such as cyber security, data science and digital marketing.
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