12/08/2003

Grant scheme for adult learners launched

Thousands of young adults starting college courses this autumn could get a new weekly grant to help meet the costs of improving their qualifications, following the launch of the Adult Learning Grant pilot scheme.

Developed as part of the government's Skills Strategy to improve the nation's skills base, the grant will offer an allowance of up to £30 per week to young adults on low incomes studying full time for a first level two qualification (five GCSEs or equivalent), or for young adults studying full time for a first level three qualification (two A-levels or equivalent).

The grant will be piloted in 10 areas across England from this September, with up to 12,000 young adult learners estimated to benefit from it.

The pilots will then be evaluated, with the aim of implementing a fully national scheme to benefit up to 60,000 adult learners.

Launching the pilot schemes, Ivan Lewis, Minister for Skills and Vocational Education, said: "The new Adult Learning Grant is a major step in helping those who might not have succeeded in their initial education but are serious about wanting to get the qualifications they need for their future careers.

"The Adult Learning Grant is not a handout but a hand up to get low-skilled adults learning and earning. It will open up opportunities for low skilled, low income young adults to gain key skills and qualifications which will help improve their employment prospects and provide a route to a better life."

(GMcG)

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