To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment she has made of the findings of the evaluation of the further education reform programme 2015 research report commissioned, by her Department, on the effect of student loans on learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Answered on
30 October 2017
The recently published Evaluation of the FE Reform Programme report provides a number of key findings. In particular, 83% of providers either reported an increase in the numbers of disadvantaged learners, or had not noticed any fall in the numbers, as a consequence of those reforms to Further Education.
The department will continue to ensure that there are clear communications about the benefits of study supported by Advanced Learner Loans, so that those from all backgrounds can access such loans to enhance their career prospects.
The Advanced Learner Loans Bursary Fund provides additional support to loan-funded learners that require assistance in meeting costs associated with their study, such as childcare, travel, books and equipment, plus any learning support needs.
The latest evaluation of Advanced Learner Loans, commencing in November, will look at the impact of the extension to those aged 19-23 and to Level 5 and Level 6. It will provide the Department with further evidence on how the offer supports adults from different backgrounds.