School’s out for the summer and so is the sun. With the holiday season now in full swing for thousands of young people around the country, you might expect them to be making the most of the holidays. However new survey findings from the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) released today show that 83% of young people across the East Midlands are worrying about their career prospects instead.
The survey commissioned by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) to highlight the benefits of Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA), found that while 87% of young people have plans to stay on in education, not having enough money (11%) and exam stress (13%) are causing worry for students.
A similar survey of parents revealed that, while almost half (49%) believe their child has a better future ahead of them than they did, 45% are worried about whether their child will find the right job.
Nigel Leigh, Principal at Stephenson College, which has bases in Coalville, Nottingham and Leicester, said:
“We’re well aware that many young people coming to the college may face financial challenges and the EMA can be a great help.
“The support from EMA allows students to concentrate on their course, and in our experience at Stephenson College will assist their success at College and therefore promote their entry into employment.”
David Jackson, Head of Student Services at Leicester College, said:
“With help from EMA students are able to focus on their courses and not be side tracked by the financial hardships. Most students find that having the extra money is useful and it can certainly help take some of the worry off the young people’s minds.”
Ian Pursglove, Young People's Support Programmes Policy Director at the Learning and Skills Council, said:
“These results portray a very different image of young people than we often hear about – they are ambitious and focused. A large majority want to further their education and career prospects are at the forefront of their minds and their parents.
“We know these are worrying times but, for parents who want to support their children during the downtime after exams, applying for EMA can relieve some of their concerns. Even for those young people who don’t enjoy the traditional classroom environment, EMA can provide financial support for other options such as Work Based Learning or Diplomas. Young people that are eligible and apply now can rest assured that they will receive their allowance when they start their new course, offering one less thing to worry about over the summer.”
The main motivations of young people surveyed for doing well in exams were getting a good job (56%) and to keep their options open (16%), ahead of impressing parents and teachers, and getting better results than their friends, the survey also revealed.
The Learning and Skills Council (LSC) is committed to providing practical help for young people. Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) offers up to £30 a week towards their continuing education for those eligible aged 16 to 18, dependent on the household income. EMA is paid directly into the student’s bank account and additional bonuses are also available for students who do well and meet targets set by their teacher, tutor or provider.
To find out more about EMA please visit www.direct.gov.uk/ema or call the EMA helpline on 0800 121 8989.
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