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Post 16 Bursary

If you are starting Year 12, 13 or 14 at Thomas Bewick School in September 2025, you might be entitled to a bursary to help with costs during term time.

 

What is the 16 to 19 schools’ bursary scheme?

The scheme provides financial help to young people aged 16 to 19 to participate in education or training, provided they meet the agreed standards of attendance and behaviour set by the school or academy.

What can I use the bursary for?

The bursary is to help with costs related to your studies, for example travel to and from your school or work experience, school equipment, uniform and outdoor clothing and any other costs associated with your studies.

If your application for bursary funding is successful, you should retain evidence of any expenditure in any of the above respects as bursary entitlement can be subject to checks.

Conditions attached to the scheme

Your school will expect you to have good attendance and behaviour at school.

Bursary Types

The Standard Bursary – up to £600 per academic year

To be eligible for the Standard Bursary you must meet all four of the following conditions:

  1. Attend Thomas Bewick School
  2. Be starting Year 12, 13 or 14 in September 2025
  3. Be aged between 16 and 18 on 31 August 2025
  4. Living in a household with an annual income below £32,000 before tax and national insurance

If you live in a household with an annual income less than £32,000 (including benefits and tax credits) you are entitled to receive the standard bursary which is up to £600 per academic year.

The Enhanced Bursary – up to £1200 per academic year

To be eligible for the Enhanced Bursary you must meet all four of the following conditions:

  1.  Attend Thomas Bewick School
  1.  Be starting Year 12,13 or 14 in September 2025
  1.  Be aged between 16 and 18 on 31 August 2025
  1.  Belong to one of the following groups:
  • You’re in or you recently left local authority care
  • You get Income Support or Universal Credit because you’re financially supporting yourself
  • You get Disability Living Allowance (DLA) in your name and either Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit
  • You get Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in your name and either ESA or Universal Credit

If you are eligible for the enhanced bursary you will be entitled to up to £1,200 per academic year, the enhanced bursary is not means tested.

For further information on how to apply, frequently asked questions and the application form please see the guidance and application form below:

Application 16 to 19 Bursary Scheme 2025-26

For DfE guidance on the bursary: 16 to 19 Bursary Fund: Overview - GOV.UK