ColegauCymru has today welcomed the Welsh Government announcement to increase the household income thresholds for the Education Maintenance Allowance. This change is set to benefit an estimated 3,500 additional post-16 learners across Wales, enabling more to access financial support for their further education.
The EMA is a weekly grant of £40 designed to assist 16 to 18-year-olds from eligible households with education-related costs, such as transport and meals. With the increased threshold, families with a household income of £23,400 or less (for those with one dependent child) and £25,974 or less (for those with two or more dependents) will now be eligible for this support.
This enhancement of the EMA scheme reflects a positive step towards greater educational equity in Wales, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder young people's aspirations.
ColegauCymru Chief Executive, David Hagendyk, said,
"We are pleased with the Welsh Government decision to uplift the EMA income thresholds. This initiative will provide crucial support to thousands more learners, helping them to continue their education journey whilst helping to alleviate some of the added burden of financial constraints.
ColegauCymru believes that all learners have the right to world-class education. This move underlines our shared commitment to widening access to education and ensuring that every learner in Wales has the opportunity to reach their potential and succeed."
Further Information
Welsh Government Press Release
Thousands more learners to receive financial support through Education Maintenance Allowance
27 January 2025
