EMA is safe for the short term.....

Schools Minister Iain Wright relieved the fears of many this week by confirming that the Education Maintenance Allowance would be continued after the school leaving age is raised to 18. MPs are meeting in Westminster this week to discuss the future for EMA payments. It is four years since the scheme was first introduced; during which time it has not been without controversy or criticism. A review conducted in 2008 revealed that 65 per cent of participants on the highest EMA rate of £30 believed that they could not continue to study without the EMA. Despite such striking figures there are still those who believe the allowance is little more than a hand-out and a waste of public money. Such accusations are often accompanied by the suggestion that students spendthe money on socialising and frivolous, wasteful purchases. However, this response misses key factors within the role of EMA.

 
 The payment offers the opportunity for students to work fewer hours to support their studies, and allows the chance for valuable recreational time, important to academic success. It is also crucial to recognise the value of financial decision making within the learning journey. Responsible spending is a skill learned through experience, ownership of personal finances is a key step towards establishing sustainable outgoings and spending. In addition, the contribution of the EMA in enabling students to continue their studies cannot be overstated. The attendance related system can be directly linked to an increase in participation and punctuality. The scheme relies heavily on administration, and at times the system’s flaws have been exposed, leading to delayed or missed payments. The outcry and uproar amongst students on such occasions serves only to strengthen the case that the EMA is an invaluable support.
 
Despite recent assurances from the Schools Minister, the continued provision of the EMA should not be taken for granted. In Scotland a Government consultation group has suggested changes to the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA), which would see the income threshold for qualification for the £30 EMA reduced and the £20 and £10 payments scrapped. Many have spoken out against such proposals, which are likely to decrease the money that students receive. Recent polls also point towards a close-run general election that could result in a hung parliament or change of government. It is worth noting that the Conservative Party have stated their opposition to the EMA; party spokesman Chris Grayling dismissing the scheme as a ‘bribe’. As ever, the NUS are keeping a close eye on the issue.
 
Let the NUS know your thoughts by going online to www.nus.org.uk and completing the Education Allowance Survey 2010. There are even £50 vouchers up for grabs, so cross the boxes and your fingers, and help the NUS to protect and improve this vital support for students.

Shane Mann's Blog