Cash for learning scheme widened

The scheme aims to benefit pupils on low incomes

A scheme which offers pupils a cash bonus for continuing their school education has been extended.

Scotland's Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning, Wendy Alexander, announced the expansion of the Education Maintenance Allowance scheme on Monday.

It pays up to £40 per week to eligible young people who choose to continue their education after the age of 16.

The minister said the scheme would help prepare young Scots for the jobs of tomorrow.

Wendy Alexander: Offering pupils cash incentives

A successful pilot scheme took place in East Ayrshire and from August it will be extended to Glasgow, Dundee and West Dunbartonshire.

Around 7,500 young people are expected to benefit from the £21.6m initiative which is designed to boost university entrance rates among children from low income families.

To qualify for the allowance pupils must pledge to attend classes, with bonuses of £75 for attendance and £50 for achievement.

Speaking at St Roch's Secondary School in Royston, Glasgow, Ms Alexander said: "The Scottish Executive is investing heavily in the future of young people in Scotland.

"Learning and earning are increasingly linked and education changes life chances more profoundly than ever.

Fresh commitment

"The figures are stark. Half of those leaving school with no qualifications will be unemployed.

"Of those with Standard Grades, seven out of 10 are in work. Eight out of 10 with Highers or a College education are in work.

"But of those with a university education, nine out of 10 are in work.

Ms Alexander said 900 young people in East Ayrshire had taken advantage of the scheme.

"We are committed to making every Scot ready for the jobs of tomorrow and the young people who will benefit from this announcement are at the forefront of that commitment."