Childcare

To get support with childcare you can either apply to Care to Learn if you are aged under 20 or apply to the college's Learner Support Funds if you are over 20. You can use OFSTED registered childminders, creches, nurseries or after-school clubs.

The aim of Care to Learn is to give financial support to teenage mothers and fathers who want to continue their education or training and need help with the cost of their childcare and travel expenses. You can claim Care to Learn funding if you are under 20 and:

• Start a course of learning or training in a school, college or as a trainee with a work based learning provider that receives some public funding
• Are caring for your own child(ren)
• Are living in England
• Use a registered childcare provider

Applications can be made now for courses that start at any time. For more information and to apply for Care to Learn funding you can visit the Care to Learn website at http://www.dfes.gov.uk/caretolearn.

You can also get information and guidance in completing the forms for Care to Learn from the Student Welfare Officer.

If you are receiving financial assistance for your course through your local job centre plus, they can also help you with the cost of childcare. If this applies to you please see the Lone Parent Advisor at your local job centre.