SWDT Prospectus 2027-2028 - Flipbook - Page 20
FINANCIAL SUPPORT & TRAVEL
All full time learners aged between 16 and 18 are entitled to a fully funded (free)
course. Your course will also be free if you are 19+ and:
• You are unemployed and in receipt of Job Seekers’ Allowance (JSA),
Employment Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit and are studying at
Level 2 or below.
• You earn less than £32,000** and are studying at Level 2 or below.
• You are aged 19 to 23, are studying at Level 3 and do not already hold a Level 3
qualification
• Are not in employment and not in receipt of benefits
Free Courses for Jobs:
Available in certain areas of education. You must be 19+ and not already hold a
Level 3 or earn under £32,000 if you do hold a Level 3. Areas include Health and
Social Care, Public Services, Hospitality (list not exhaustive).
You can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to fund your course if:
• You are aged 19 to 23, already hold a qualification at Level 3 or above, and are
studying at Level 3 or above.
• You are aged 24 or over and are studying at Level 3 or above.
Discretionary learner support funds
Discretionary learner support funds provide financial support to learners to help
them access further education. The funds are prioritised for those who face
financial hardship and are subject to eligibility requirements.
Learners can apply for:
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Essential course items (books, trips, stationery, kit and uniform)
Childcare costs
Travel costs for learners over 19 years old
Course fees
Free School Meal
Bus Pass
You must apply for a bus pass at:
https://bacoll.paymystudent.com/portal/
The finance team will then order your travel Card. This is a prepaid debit card which will be topped up weekly, with the correct
amount of funds required for your travel to and from college
each week. Should you lose your travel card, there will be a £3
replacement fee. You can use this on any bus service company
required including Arriva and Weardale.
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To apply visit bacoll.ac.uk
