Loughborough College has welcomed a government decision that could benefit hundreds of its students.
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg’s announcement that free school meals will be extended to further education and sixth form college disadvantaged students joins a range of finance-boosting initiatives being given top priority at the College.
The government's changes will be introduced from September 2014. Only 16-18 year olds choosing to study at school sixth forms are currently eligible.
“This decision could make a real difference to hundreds of Loughborough College students, ensuring they receive a square meal every day,” said Principal and Chief Executive Esme Winch.
“Until now young people from disadvantaged backgrounds were being penalized if they chose to study in a college rather than a school so this is very good news for our students at a time when there are so many demands on family budgets.
“At Loughborough College we are making financial assistance for our students a priority.
“We have significantly raised the income threshold to open up our funding to even more students - plus we are offering help with travel, meals and stationery.”