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Bursaries & Awards

Being part of the GDST enables us to access a range of exciting competitions, awards and scholarships in a range of areas.  The students can compete against other students across the GDST in a number of subject areas but also receive help and support for summer travel and experiences that will enhance their next steps.

 
 
 
 
 

 

Two types of bursary will be available to students aged 16-19 who commence their course in the year 2023/24: 

 

Discretionary Bursary 

This may be awarded on an identified needs basis and at the Academy’s discretion to cover costs such as essential books/equipment, transport, meals, accommodation, exam re-sits fees and other miscellaneous items associated with being in learning and will meet the following assessment criteria: 

  •  Applicants must be under 19 on 31 August 2023 
  • Evidence of household income below £25,000 must accompany the application prior to assessment. 

As each application is individually assessed, there may be some flexibility, e.g., consideration would be given to the number of dependents in a household. 

Based on the information received and if financial hardship is identified, the learner may be provided/reimbursed with: 

  • Re-imbursement of essential travel costs upon submission of evidence. e.g. travel tickets/weekly pass 
  • Contribution toward meal expenditure in the school canteen 
  • Other costs as mentioned above 

Vulnerable Bursary 

This category includes young people in care, care leavers, young people in receipt of Income Support/Universal Credit and Disabled young people in receipt of both Disability Living Allowance/Personal Independence Payments and Employment Support Allowance who will be eligible to receive a bursary of £1,200 per year or pro-rata in the case of short courses. 

Evidence to support the application will be needed, such as a letter setting out the benefit to which the young person is entitled, or written confirmation of current/previous ‘Looked After’ status from the relevant Local Authority, or their Leaving Care Review Document. In addition, if other barriers are identified, learners assessed as being eligible for the discretionary element can also request financial assistance. This could be for essential items of uniform, equipment etc. In both cases, the student will complete an application form and will provide the required evidence as listed above. The application will be processed (upon receipt of the required evidence). If the application is unsuccessful, the student will be made aware of the outcome in writing. Receipt of the bursary will be conditional on the student meeting agreed standards of attendance and behaviour.