Association of Colleges

LSC rule changes threaten young people's access to education and training

29 July 2008

The AoC and National Association of Managers for Student Support Services in Colleges are urging Colleges to contact their MPs about the changes to the 08/09 Discretionary Learner Support Fund Guidance.  Click on the following link to download the AoC  model letter .

Previously, colleges have used Discretionary Learner Support Funds to fill gaps in transport provision where local authorities have failed to meet their obligations to learners. 

If the change (Section 7.3 of the guidance) is fully implemented colleges will be forced to withdraw support for students at short notice, leaving students unable to complete their qualifications and training.  It will effectively reduce choice for young people in education and training and create confusion about transport entitlements.  These changes will also directly affect a group of people who are unable to vote, and who have no influence on local authority decision making.

Click on the following link to download the AoC's model letter which encourages your MP to request that the government:

• Clarifies the policy and minimum requirements for local authorities when preparing their transport policy and
• Reissues guidance for learner hardship funds making it clear that these funds can be used to support 16 – 18 year old learners with the cost of transport to attend college.

---

View all news