College bonus for ‘excellent’ attendance

Dearne Valley College’s “training allowance” is not means-tested and is available to all full time students and apprentices, aged between 16 and 18.

The college is thought to be the first in South Yorkshire to introduce such a scheme, after the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) was scrapped by the coalition Government.

An annual “achievement bonus” of £100 will also be awarded for those who complete their course with “excellent attendance.”

Ioan Morgan, DVC interim principal, said: “It is the college’s responsibility to make learning as accessible as possible and the new DVC training allowance will have a significant impact for our 16 to 18-year-old learners.

“Not only will it support them financially, but it will also help to instil the importance of good attendance – a life skill that will support them in their future careers.”

The move has been welcomed by MP John Healey, who said: “I am pleased that our local college is willing to step in and support students where the Government has refused to do so.”