College offers information to learners applying for new 24+ Further Education loans

A new way of funding FE courses for students age 24 and over comes in later this year, and Weston College is backing a campaign to give prospective learners all the information they need.

The Government's Advanced Learning Loan will be available to 24+ students wishing to apply for courses beginning in September 2013. The loan means that no upfront fees need to be paid and will cover 100 per cent of course costs between minimum and maximum levels.

In addition, the loan only has to be repaid once the student is earning over £21,000 a year, and at a rate of 9 per cent over that figure. So, for example, if the student is earning £23,000 a year, the repayment is just £15 a month.

The loans are available for Level 3 and 4 courses, including A Level, Access to Higher Education and Apprenticeships, but not HND or HNC qualifications.

The prospective student will apply for a loan and be assessed by the Student Loans Company (SLC). Once they've fulfilled the criteria, the SLC will let the individual and the College know.

Peggy Tovey, Deputy Principal said: "We are already having very positive feedback from students who are being interviewed for courses next September; they see it as a real opportunity, especially at a time of austerity.  I would encourage students to come forward early to secure their loans."

If you are interested in finding out more about the loans please contact the College on 01934 411 411.