| | You may be eligible for extra support whilst studying. This can come in different forms depending on your personal circumstances. Below is a breakdown of some of the support that is available. This should only be used as a guide. For a detailed assessment of your personal situation please contact Student Welfare Services who will be able to further assess your situation. The Funding Team will then be able to advise and assist you with your application. Both can be contacted on 01582 477776. Learner Support Funds If you are on benefits or have an income under £20,817, the Learner Support Fund may be able to provide money to make study easier for you. If your income exceeds the threshold but you have children, you may still be eligible for help through the fund. Some of the things you may be able to get assistance for are help towards buying books, kits, equipment, educational trips, maintenance and fees. Please note: If the student leaves, they will be asked to return the equipment provided and further applications for support may not be granted. The Learning Support Fund may also be able to help students over 20 years with childcare. Students who have children and are on a low income, or a means-tested benefit, may apply for help to pay for Ofsted registered childcare provision whilst they are studying on full or part-time courses, subject to availability of funds. Students must return weekly attendance slips to Student Welfare Services, as payment for childcare is dependent on regular attendance at College. Students will be liable for all fees until their application has been approved. Please talk to Student Welfare Services before booking a childcare place. Student 20 or under can apply to Care to Learn for childcare costs. Please be advised that Learner Support Funds can only be used for courses that are funded by the Learning & Skills Council. Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) Are you a full-time student? Are you aged 16 - 19? Were you in year 11 or 12 last year? Is your joint parental income under £30,810 per annum and you have been a resident in the EU for three years? If you can answer ´YES´ to these questions then you may qualify for EMA. If you do qualify, the amount you receive could be £30, £20 or £10 per week depending on your parents´ income. Please contact the Funding Team who will advise and assist you with your application on 01582 477776. |