§ Mr. RichardsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what financial help and support is available in Wales for mature students in full-time education; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Wyn RobertsLocal education authorities in England and Wales have a duty to provide mandatory awards to students who are personally qualified and who attend designated higher education courses. All courses that attract mandatory awards also attract student loans. In certain circumstances the mandatory award provides for an extra allowance for older students.
LEAs may also provide discretionary awards to students on non-designated courses or to those who do not qualify for mandatory awards. In addition, discretionary help may be available from other sources such as institutional access funds, a career development loan or the educational trust funds and charities.