Education funding.

[Utterly Clueless]

In short, I'm fed up of being a failure and letting my parents down so i want to do something to change that.

As i like car and i like tinkering i thought basic vehicle mechanics would be a good course to look into.

Ive decided to go for a 1 year 'simpletons' course to start with to see if its something i will enjoy, if so i'll probably go on to do something like a national diploma.

Now, i've been looking into student funding, But being over 18 im not eligable for EMA, and due to living with my parents and the house hold income being over 20k im not eligable for ALG, ive had a quick scout on google but i couldnt find anything so here my question.

Does anyone know of any form of funding i would be able to get? Reason i ask is because even though the course itself is paid for due to being a full time course. I will still need to buy all the thing needed for the course, proper tool kit, books, resources etc. As i only earn £224 a month and that all goes into running the car, and my parents cant really afford to give me money, the aforementioned items would be fairly difficult for me to obtain.

I hate the idea of being given money buy the gubbermint (hence why i dont collect JSA even though im eligable) but in this case i would need it.

So, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Thom

[AlexKP]

Go to your local college and see their student services and careers advisors.

They will have all the up to date info and specialise in helping people in your situation.

[parakitaMol.]

Fristly, DON'T devalue yourself or your course by labelling it a 'simpletons' course. Good on you for recognising your ambitions and education values.

What about considering an engineering apprenticeship?

That way you're learning and earning - they are still highly valued by employers too.

I strongly recommend looking at The Sector Skills Councils (there's one for every 'type' of work) promote and organise activities in your sector. They often list training opportunities, funding opportunities, events and apprenticeships in the field you want to work in. Have a look at these to get an idea.

Cogent

Construction Skills

Lantra

Even if you start with your 1 year course and build in small steps over a period of time, you'll end up with a good set of qualifications. As has been said before, often colleges themselves can give advice on funding. Good luck!

Edited by parakitaMol. on Wednesday 11th March 09:08

[g_attrill]

Having been on a BTEC course, I would warn you that most of the people are there because their parents said they must either get a job or go to college (so they can claim benefits), although thankfully on my course the dropout rate was 50% in the first term and a further 30% before the end of the first year.

I would agree a general BTEC Engineering course or anything that gets you a piece of paper would be better if you are going to invest time/money in full-time education. To be honest all the college level BTECs are pretty straightforward - if you turn up, pay attention, and put effort into the required homework you will pass.

Edited by g_attrill on Wednesday 11th March 09:42