As young people across Hertfordshire receive their GCSE results, the Connexions service double-decker bus will be taking to the roads to promote a new allowance young people may be eligible for if they continue in education.

The bus will be visiting sites around the country, including Borehamwood, and Potters Bar, to provide information on Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA).

Connexions in partnership with the learning and Skills Council (LSC) will offer help and advice through on-board personal advisors.

LSC learner support officer Rachael Norman said: "Making decisions about what to do after GCSE's can be difficult, especially if finance is an issue.

"We hope that where young people are eligible for EMA, they will not be put off continuing in further education because of financial reasons.

"The Connexions bus is intended to provide information to young people who aren't aware of this new allowance, which, depending on circumstances, can provide a weekly allowance of up to £30.

"We believe there are about 4600 young people entitled to the allowance in the country, and we hope that many of them will be able to visit the bus and find out more."

Gita Patel, Connexions' personal adviser said: "The EMA acts as an incentive to keep young people in learning, a reward for working hard. It helps cover expenses like books and education visits.

"There are lots of different options for young people after their GCSEs and Connexions can help with making the difficult decisions."

Learners would be entitled to EMA if their family income is below £30,000 and they are attending a school sixth-form, Further Education College or an approved learning programme. The weekly allowance is paid at three levels £10, £20 or £30 depending on household income, and most who qualify will receive EMA for two years.

Although there is no summer cut-off date for applications, it's a good idea to apply early to avoid any delays in payments.

EMA application forms and further information are available from schools and colleges in the area as well as online from the web sire at www.ema.dfes.gov.uk The buss will also be visiting the following sites :

  • July 29: King George V Playing Fields, Welwyn Garden City.
  • July 30: High Street, Potters Bar.
  • July 31: Borehamwoodstock music concert, Meadow Park, Borehamwood.