The government has once again been criticised over its handling of student grants.
A top college principle has claimed that government ministers have "lost their grip" on Education Maintenance Allowances (EMAs) following a number of payment delays. Nigel Robbins, principal of Cirencester College in Gloucestershire, told the BBC that it appears the government has no control over the grant scheme.
Thousands of students starting courses in September have still not received the means-tested payments to which they are entitled under the EMA system and critics have claimed the delays could put young people off going into further education or cause those are already studying to drop out.
"I get the impression ministers have lost their grip on things - partly because so much has been outsourced," said Mr Robbins. "They can no longer manage this, they're no longer in control." He added: "What has really upset me is that this is a really good scheme, one of the best things that this government has put in place for education."
EMAs are designed to encourage young people to carry on with their education once they have taken their GCSE exams at age 16. Those choosing to do A Levels or vocational courses can qualify for a weekly allowance of £10, £20 or £30, depending on their household income.
