Adult Learning Grant helps fulfil your dreams

MP Ann Coffey will visit Stockport College next week to meet some of the students who are on the road to fulfilling their career ambitions, thanks to the new Adult Learning Grant (ALG).

Students Rachel Hay (22) and Adriano Digaudio (25) have come back to college to study on the Access to Higher Education course. They have both been in jobs since they left school, but want to get to university and train as teachers.  Rachel, who has worked at Top Shop since she was 16, would like to take a degree in primary education and specialise in working with children who have behavioural difficulties.  Adriano, who has worked for the NHS, would like to become a secondary school teacher.

The ALG is a weekly grant paying up to £30 a week for full-time learners aged 19 and over who are studying for qualifications such as A levels and GCSE, or vocational courses such as IT, engineering or hairdressing.  The money can help with costs like travel, childcare and books.

Ann Coffey said:  “Stockport College has lots of courses on offer. If you’re thinking of  going back to college, it’s well worth finding out if you are eligible for the Adult Learning Grant. Concerns about money don’t have to hold you back if you want to learn new skills and get the right qualifications for a better job.”

Jacquie Campbell from Stockport College said: “Since it was introduced in September, 98 students at Stockport College are now receiving the Adult Learning Grant. Mature students like Adriano and Rachel who want to go on to teach, for example, say that without this grant they would find completing their course a struggle financially.”

To find out more about the Adult Learning Grant, including how to apply, ring the helpline 0800 100 900 or go to the website at www.direct.gov/alg