Cash boost for students

Nov 6 2009 by Lisa Boyle, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

MATURE students in Ayrshire are set for a cash boost.

Education secretary Fiona Hyslop announced a new package of student funding.

The grant will be available for students over the age of 25 who have previously been employed.

A further £2 million has been set aside to support students with children.

Independent students have previously only had access to loans.

Adam Ingram MSP has welcomed the news.

He said: “Importantly this money will help those studying for HNC's at our colleges as part of retraining in response to the recession, as well as those taking degrees at our universities.

“This is a real step forward, ensuring independent students have the funding to access education and putting the role of our colleges and universities at the heart of economic recovery.”