- SCHOOL LEAVERS
Financial Support
Depending on your personal circumstances, you may qualify for financial support funds. We’ve tried to streamline the application process and make it easier for you to get the help you need.
If you have any questions, please contact us on 0345 120 0044 (option 6) or email [email protected]
Learners of all ages on a further education course (up to a level 3 or level 4 if on an advanced learner loan) who meet the required eligibility criteria with a household income of less than £35,000 or if you are aged 16-18 and are: in local authority care, a care leaver, on income support or Universal Credit in your own name or in receipt of both Employment Support Allowance and DLA/PIP payments you may qualify for help towards travel and meal allowances.
To apply for Bursary, you will need the required financial evidence:
- Proof of household income (e.g. if you’re living with parents/carers, their tax credits award statements for 3 recent months, or proof of your own income if living independently).
- Evidence of a bank account in your own name, so, if necessary, we can make payments directly to you.
If you think you would be eligible, please complete the following form:
Bursary FormGuidance DocumentWe offer financial support for childcare for all learners who are eligible for Bursary. If you are applying for childcare, please note that:
- All Childcare providers must be registered with OFSTED.
- The learner is responsible for all childcare costs incurred if they do not attend or if they withdraw from college. If funding is withdrawn the learner is responsible for payment of any outstanding accounts.
- Government funded hours must be used for timetabled hours before any other claim can be made. Learners must check their entitlement through the Family Information Service or the Children’s Centre and provide evidence.
Further information regarding our childcare conditions can be found on the Childcare Bursary form.
Care to Learn
The Care to Learn scheme is a government-funded programme that funds childcare for young people in England who are living and learning. You may be entitled to £180 per child to cover registered childcare costs if you are a parent or guardian under 20 years old,
To see if you qualify and to apply, please go to https://www.gov.uk/care-to-learn or call the learner support helpline on 0345 120 0044 (option 2) to request an application pack. If you need any help with your application, please contact our advisors who will be happy to assist.
Evidence required:
- a copy of the child’s birth certificate
or - a letter confirming receipt of Child Benefit for that child
20+ Childcare
Learners aged over 20 who are eligible for the 19+ DLS Fund and Advanced Learner Loans Bursary can also apply for help with childcare costs while they attend college, which would help to cover any costs incurred above the free nursery hours provided by the government.
Evidence required:
- a copy of the child’s birth certificate
- a letter confirming receipt of Child Benefit for that child
- Evidence of Universal Credit or your Tax Credit Award Notice (April 2026 – April 2027)
Bursary FormChildcare FormFor any enquiries regarding funding as a degree level student please visit this link to our fees and funding:
Free College Meals: Free meals in further education funded institutions guide: academic year 2025 to 2026 – GOV.UK
Advanced Learner Loan: Advanced Learner Loan: Overview – GOV.UK
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