A Level Results Day and Planning For University Life

A LEVELS - As A Level Results Day is tomorrow, students across the UK will soon begin planning for university life. 

However, for those with kids, the task of juggling childcare with full time education can be especially daunting. 

To help parents get the most out of their future academic career, personal finance experts at money.co.uk have issued top financial tips for parents in full-time education, helping them to claim both free childcare and cash support grants.     

What to do if you’re a parent in full time education

Now that A-level results day is here, students across the UK will need to start planning for university life. 

For many, this can be as simple as stocking up on your favourite food and buying some bedsheets and a kettle, but for the thousands of students who have kids of their own, going into full time higher education can be especially daunting. 

Luckily, there are several government support schemes designed specifically with student parents in mind, whether you are starting a degree or moving onto qualifications such as BTEC or PGCEs. If you’re accepted for these schemes, you can claim a number of hours of free childcare, support payments or both. 

James Andrews, senior personal finance editor at money.co.uk, said: “If you’re a parent about to enter full time education, there are several free support schemes that can help you financially as you enter this new phase of your life.

“The first thing to do is check your eligibility, which can be done on the government’s childcare page. Before you log on, make sure you have your income details to hand, as well as the details of what kind of educational course you’re about to start. If you’re in a relationship, it’s a good idea to have your partner’s income details too. 

“In terms of which schemes are available, the amount of support on offer is dependent on how old your kids are, as well as which form of education you are in. 

“If you’re under 20 and in school or Sixth Form, you may be able to apply for weekly payments through the Care to Learn scheme. This offers up to £160 a week (£175 in London) towards childcare. This scheme pays directly to your registered childcare provider and is designed to help out over the summer holidays.

“If you’re over 19 and in further education, such as a BTEC qualification or PGCE, you have the option to apply for something called ‘Discretionary Learner Support’, which can help pay for childcare as well as other costs such as accommodation and travel. If you’re having trouble with your banking (eg you might be overdrawn or struggling with debt), these funds can be paid directly to someone else, for example your childcare provider or landlord. 

“Finally, if you’re in full time higher education and have children under 15, you can apply for a Childcare Grant. This won’t need to be paid back and can give you up to £307.95 a week if you have two or more children.”

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