In September 2011, the Government replaced the Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA) with a 16-19 Bursary Fund. The aim of the fund is to provide assistance to all of you whose access to, or completion of, education is inhibited by financial constraints or barriers.
Payment is dependent on meeting agreed achievement and behaviour criteria as laid out in the Stroud High Sixth Form Learning Agreement. You will be given further details on this easy process once you have joined us in September.
Eligibility
You are eligible if you:
- are following Government funded full-time or part-time courses;
- are 16 years and over;
- under 19 years of age on 31st August in the academic year in which you start your programme of study; and
- fulfil the residency criteria in the EFA Funding Guidance for 2013/14 (see https://www.gov.uk/16-to-19-education-funding-guidance).
To be eligible for funding, you must provide evidence that you satisfy the eligibility criteria.
Process
To apply for a Bursary either download and complete the 16-19 Bursary Application Form (see the menu on the left of screen) or pick up a form from Julia Merrett in Sixth Form. Applications cannot be made until a Sixth Form place has been confirmed and you have commenced your post-16 studies with us.
Applications will be accepted throughout the academic year to allow for changes in personal circumstances. However, as funds are limited, it is in the student's interest to apply as soon as conveniently possible. All completed applications should be given to Sarah Tapscott, Head of Sixth Form.
Please note that an application will not be assessed unless it contains full details including documentary evidence of household income.
Funding Levels
There are five different funding levels, details of which can be found on the application form.
Discretionary Bursary
Parents/Carers/Students may approach the school at any time in case of hardship (including sudden or temporary circumstances) for assistance, these cases will be dealt with on a case by case basis. Please contact Sarah Tapscott, Head of Sixth Form. Any discussion will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Appeals
You are entitled to appeal against the decision made in relation to your application for a Bursary or the withholding of payments. You should write a letter of appeal to Mr Mark McShane (Headteacher). This will be forwarded for consideration by an Appeals Panel consisting of Sarah Tapscott (Head of Sixth Form), Mrs Sandra Thomson (Business Manager) and a Governor.
Fraud
Applicants’ parents are responsible for providing true, accurate and complete information on total household income. Fraudulent claims for Bursary allocations will be treated very seriously. Students found to make fraudulent claims will be required to refund all payments and the police will be informed.