Applying for SMF Support
Applications are currently open.
Please see below for help and guidance on how to fill in the application form - you'll need to scroll to the bottom of the page to select the correct application form for your potential star.
Key Terminology
What support can you apply for?
SMF Support encompasses various forms of assistance such as:
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Funding for Courses
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Funding for Resources
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Mentorship
Detailed examples of SMF support can be found in the SMF Application Guidance below.
Eligibility
Before applying, please check you and your potential SMF Star are eligible to apply...
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Please read SMF Application Guidance and Collaboration Agreement
Collaborator Eligibility
To qualify as Collaborators, you must meet the following criteria:
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Agree that the support provided by SMF is to be used solely for the charitable purposes for which it was awarded.
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Where relevant, provide a safe environment for the SMF Star to learn, with appropriate facilities and policies in place.
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Agree to report on the progress made throughout the project and provide evidence of any certification on completion of the activities.
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Agree to all conditions found in our Collaboration Agreement. Please read this document before applying.
Beneficiary (Star) Eligibility
To qualify for SMF Support, beneficiaries must meet the following criteria:
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Aged 11 to 25 years.
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Resident in England or Wales.
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Are neurodivergent (click to review what's included under the term 'neurodivergent') or are on a waiting list for diagnosis.
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They should have a palpable interest in and gain a sense of enjoyment from engaging in STEM activities.
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To understand how and why we have this criteria, please review our 'How we chose our Eligibility Criteria' doc.
Application Process
Step 1
If you are a potential SMF Star, find your collaborator (teacher, employer, club runner, parent etc) to work on this with you.
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If you are a Collaborator, identify your potential SMF Star and tell them about the SMF.
Step 2
Both potential stars and Collaborators / Parent must read the SMF Application Guidance and, Collaborators / Parents, please read the Collaborator Agreement before applying. They will tell you all the detail you need.
Step 3
APPLY!
Depending on your age, click below and download your form. When complete, email it back to us with any supporting documentation.
APPLY HERE
(Choose the relevant age group)
What Happens next?
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Once the application closing date is reached, the Trustees will review the applications over the following month or so to determine the winner(s).
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The SMF may be back in touch to ask you for additional information during that month.
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They will aim to let you know if you've been successful or not within 2 months of the Application closing date.
How do the Trustees make their decision?
The Trustees will consider the following to determine the winners:
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Adherence to the eligibility criteria
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Alignment with the foundation's mission
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Confirmation that the outcomes of the support will demonstrate furtherance to the SMF's charitable purposes
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Number of candidates and potential impact
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The availability of funds
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If successful, the SMF will work with the beneficiary and collaborator to provided SMF Support tailored to address each SMF Star's unique need.
Mental Health Support
We understand that dealing with neurodiversity in a neurotypical world can be tough, if you are struggling you may find reaching out to the following organisations helpful:
Whether you want to understand how you’re feeling, find ways to feel better, or support someone who's struggling, we’re here to help.
Our children and young people's wellbeing resources aim to empower young people to make informed choices about their mental health & wellbeing.
Anxiety affects many autistic people. But thanks to recent breakthroughs we now know more than ever before. This page shares the latest knowledge around anxiety and autism and how to get help.
