At Watling Academy Sixth Form, we provide 16–19 bursaries for students to ensure they can access their studies, where they would otherwise be unable to do so for financial reasons. The bursary is intended to help students with the essential costs of their studies, e.g. important books, equipment and travel costs. We are committed to closing the attainment gap between students from disadvantaged and more advantaged backgrounds, ensuring that all eligible students have access to the resources they need to succeed, participating fully in 16-19 education.
There are two types of bursaries available:
1. Vulnerable Bursary – for students who meet specific criteria, including those who are:
- In care or care leavers
- Receiving Income Support or Universal Credit in their own name
- Receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Employment and
Support Allowance (ESA), or Personal Independence Payments (PIP)
with Universal Credit
2. Discretionary Bursary – for students facing financial difficulty due to family income or other circumstances. This can be used to help cover costs such as:
- Travel to and from school
- Meals during the school day
- Textbooks, equipment, or specialist clothing
- Educational trips, university visits, or work experience
Bursary support is awarded based on students meeting the eligibility criteria. The government sets out specific criteria for the vulnerable bursary which entitles students to the funding, whilst the eligibility criteria for the discretionary bursary is determined by the school. In both cases, the school is responsible for determining whether a student’s application has been successful. All information submitted is treated in strict confidence.
This procedure outlines how The Alliance Schools Trust administers the 16-19 Bursary Fund to support eligible students in the Sixth Form at the Trust secondary schools.
