Tower Hamlets students can get an Education Award. Photo: Howard Lake

Young students in Tower Hamlets can now apply for a £400 grant through this year’s Mayor’s Education Award (MEA).

The Mayor’s Education Award, now in its third year, aims to ensure that students stay in education after their GCSE’s, by helping with the costs of studying.

The council expects to fund all eligible students and are encouraging as many applications as possible.

The Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman, said: “financial difficulties should not be a barrier for students.

“I don’t want anyone to slip through the net like this, which is why I am proud that Tower Hamlets Council is once again offering this vital help.”

The council expects to fund all eligible students and are encouraging as many applications as possible.

In order to be eligible, students must be aged between 16 and 19 on September 1 and have lived in Tower Hamlets for at least three years among other criteria.

Councillor Oliur Rahman, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services said: “This money can make the difference between someone dropping out of education forever – or going on to improve their life prospects. Please, if you think you are eligible, take the time to fill out a form or contact us for more information.

The award was launched in 2011 to help students from poorer backgrounds stay in education after GCSEs. It replaced the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA), which was scrapped by the coalition government.

Students are advised to apply as soon as possible for the award. Applications must be received within three months from the date of enrolment and must be made before the end of the course year.

Information regarding the MEA is available online or ring the Tower Hamlets Council benefits team, which coordinates the MEA, on 0207 364 5001.