Financial Support

Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)

EMA is the main form of financial support for 16-19 year olds in further education (excluding employed apprentices).

You could be entitled to receive up to £30 per week to help you with College related expenses, as well as cash bonuses for working hard.

For further information visit the EMA website on www.direct.gov.uk/ema or call the EMA helpline on 0808 121 8989.

Adult Learning Grant (ALG)

If you are aged 19 or over and are looking to return to education you may be eligible to receive up to £30 per week while you study.

Further information and application packs are available from www.direct.gov.uk/alg or from the College's Information Centre

Learner Support Fund

You don't have to let a lack of money stop you from coming to College.

If you are in receipt of benefits or have a low income then there are funds you can apply for. Help may be available for college related expenses such as kit, trips, books etc.

These funds are limited and are aimed at those in greatest need. However, the College will try and support any application.

Care To Learn

Childcare for Young Learners.

If you are a young parent aged 16-19, Care to Learn can help you with your child care costs. For more information log on to www.direct.gov.uk/caretolearn

Level 2 Entitlement

All adults studying for their first full level 2 qualification are entitled to free tuition. Therefore, if you do not have the equivalent of 5 GCSE passes at A*-C, and are studying a full level 2 or equivalent, you will be entitled to free tuition. You will, however, need to pay for any exam/assessment fees.

Free Travel

If you will be using public transport to come to College, you should APPLY NOW to Go North East for a free ID card.

Please contact Go North East on (0845) 60 60 260 or apply online at www.simplygo.com

If you live over 2 miles from College
You will need to apply to Durham County Council for your part-contribution travel assistance. Forms are available direct from Durham County Council Transport Entitlement Team. Tel: (0191) 383 5500 or from the College.

Don't worry - the College will reimburse any additional costs for your tickets after you have enrolled.

If you live under 2 miles from College
You will receive free travel from the College in the form of Get Around tickets. These tickets give students access to free unlimited travel - including evenings and weekends.