Back to school and college tips
We know
that going back to school or college can be
a stressful time, especially financially
So here are some top tips to help you get back into the
swing
of things.
Bursaries at 16-19
Rules around financial support for 16-19 year olds in education
and training have changed this year.
Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is being phased out in
England, but you may be entitled to help from your college.
To find out more, talk to student support at your local
school/college or your training provider.
Buying books and equipment
If you're starting a new course this year:
- sort out what books and equipment you really
need
- ask last year's students what they found most
useful
- set a budget of what you can afford and then
prioritise
- look for second-hand books and equipment - try
notice boards in your college or school (you can also often find
good deals on second-hand text books on online bookshops)
Buying and using computers
It's hard to make the most of your course without a
computer:
- make the most of college facilities and your local
library
- students in dire need with difficult circumstances can apply to
the Frank Buttle
Trust for small grants
- be wary of mobile phone deals offering free
laptops - shop around, read the small print, make sure the
phone and laptop do what you need them to, and don't forget to
insure them both
Budget yourself
Keeping on top of your money is important:
- make a new personal budget once you've worked
out what your college income is going
to be
- you may have new expenses like travel costs and lunches, so
take these into account
- your social life is likely to change too, so
make the most of it!
- check out the budget planners at Barclays
Money Skills
Special deals for students
Once you're a student, there are lots of special deals and
discounts available:
- your student card can get you discounts in
local shops, cheap haircuts, cut-price cinema tickets and more
- ask about discounts everywhere you
go
- get a local student bus/train pass or a
national young person's rail/coach card
- you can also get bank accounts and insurance
policies specially designed for students
- look online to find the best offers and
deals
School uniform
Buying new uniform is something you tend to do every year. Here
are some tips to get the
best value:
- buy early so you can shop around for the best
deals
- cheaper school clothing in the supermarkets is a
seasonal offer
- don't forget the shoes!
Around the UK…
You can further information in the following areas: