We are committed to ensuring that all students can access education and succeed, regardless of financial background. The 16–19 Bursary Fund is available to help eligible Sixth Form students with the costs associated with studying.
If you think you might be eligible, we strongly encourage you to apply—even if you’re unsure. The process is simple, and all applications are treated with confidentiality and care.
What is the Bursary Fund?
The 16–19 Bursary Fund provides financial support to help students with the cost of studying in Sixth Form. This may include help with:
- Travel costs (e.g. bus passes)
- Essential textbooks and revision materials
- Course-related trips or visits
- School meals
- Clothing or equipment for your course
- University open day travel or interviews
- The bursary is not a loan – you do not need to repay it.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible if you are:
- A student aged 16 to 19 on 31 August at the start of the academic year
- Enrolled in full-time education at Netherthorpe Sixth Form
- Facing financial barriers to learning (see categories below)
There are two main types of bursary:
1. Vulnerable Bursary (Up to £1,200 per year)
For students who are:
- In care or a care leaver
- Receiving Income Support or Universal Credit in their own name
- Receiving Employment Support Allowance (ESA) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
2. Discretionary Bursary
For students whose families are in receipt of:
- Free School Meals
- Universal Credit
- Other means-tested benefits Or who are otherwise facing financial hardship
How Can It Be Used?
Funds are intended to remove barriers to learning. Support may be provided in the form of:
- Direct payments to students
- Travel passes or reimbursements
- Equipment or uniform bought on your behalf
- Subsidised educational visits
- Spending is tailored to your needs and agreed between you and the Sixth Form team
Help with Applications
If you’re unsure whether you qualify or need applying, please speak to the Sixth Form Team—we are here to help and all enquiries are treated in confidence.
Free School Meals
If you’re in sixth form, you may still be eligible for free school meals — even if you’ve already received them in the past. However, you must reapply to continue receiving this support.
Free school meals are available for students whose families meet certain income-based criteria. These include:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Universal Credit (with earnings below the threshold)
- Child Tax Credit (without Working Tax Credit and under the income limit)
- Support under the Immigration and Asylum Act
- Pension Credit (guaranteed element)
Even if you’re unsure, it’s worth checking your eligibility. The process is quick, confidential, and can make a real difference.
Don’t miss out — apply today and make sure you get the support you’re entitled to here:- https://forms.office.com/e/YSiD7pYAFu
