Johanne school leaver going to college
Johanne started the Introduction to Care programme at college. This programme is designed as an entry level to Further Education for young school leavers who may not have achieved academically at school and who want to gain some insight into Care as a career.
Johanne was 16 when she was accepted onto the programme and, as her parents' income was less than £21,835 she received the full Education Maintenance Allowance of £30 a week. This, along with the 2 EMA bonuses of £150 for making good progress on her course, supported her financially whilst she gained the skills and academic qualifications to go on to study at a higher level. She is currently studying the HNC Social Care after successfully gaining the NQ Social Care.
During her 3 years at College, Johanne has gained skills and enhanced her caring qualities and will be successful both academically and professionally. The EMA scheme gave her the opportunity to commence college at an appropriate level and she has been able to progress at the correct pace since then.