Learner Support Fund
The Learner Support Fund is a grant which is available to support students studying in further education.
Students in receipt of the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) can also apply for Learner Support Funds.
Who can claim Learner Support Fund?
To be eligible for Learner Support Fund students must meet the following criteria:
- Be 16-19 Years old
- Live in the Sandwell Borough
- Be in full-time education at a school/college Sixth Form
- With a household income of £30,000 per year or less
If you have answered No to any of the above you will not qualify for Learner Support funding.
If you have answered Yes to all of the above you may be able to claim Learner Support funding.
Which expenses can I claim for?
We will only reimburse you for certain expenses. The types of expenses you may claim for are: -
- Field trips and visits connected with your course
- Travel expenses to attend interviews at Higher Education establishments. This is for the student only - not travel companions
- Specialist clothing and equipment which is necessary to enable you to participate in the course
- Specialist resources to meet any special needs which are not available from other sources
- Examination and registration fees not covered by the school
- Books which are necessary for the course, which will remain the property of the student
How much can I claim?
The maximum amount you can claim is £100 per term. You can claim more than once throughout the academic year, as long as the maximum amount does not exceed £300.
How can I prove how much I have spent?
Receipts for all expenditure must be attached to the application form.
Where you do not have a receipt, you must provide a letter from your school, detailing proof of expenditure. This letter must be provided on the school headed notepaper & countersigned. Applications received without proof of expenditure you will not be reimbursed. Original travel tickets should also be supplied.
How do I claim Learner Support Fund?
Claims for learner support funds can be made by completing an application form and providing the appropriate evidence requested.
Where can I get a claim form ?
You can get an application in a number of ways
In person by visiting:-
Education and Children’s Services, Shaftesbury House
402 High Street, West Bromwich B70 9LT.
By post by writing to: -
Education and Children’s Services, Shaftesbury House
Access Service, Education Benefits
402 High Street, West Bromwich B70 9LT.
Before you complete the application for Learner Support Fund please read the guidance notes these will help you to complete the application form.
When you have completed the application form please use the checklist to make sue you have completed all the relevant sections and you know which information you need to send with your form.