Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 29
29
Paragraph: 121
Extending the equivalent or lower funding rule exemption to full-time science, technology, engineering and mathematics...
Conclusion
Extending the equivalent or lower funding rule exemption to full-time science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and geographical and environmental courses would allow quicker retraining in higher level skills needed in the future green economy.
Paragraph Reference:
121
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The exemption to Equivalent or Lower-Level Qualification (ELQ) rules for students studying part-time second degrees in any STEM subject was introduced following a decline in the number of part-time students. It was felt that an extension of the ELQ exemptions was warranted to support those who chose to study part-time. In particular, prospective ELQ students who wanted to re-skill and study for career reasons may have been discouraged from study as they were not eligible for part-time fee loans. We will consult on the detail and scope of the Lifelong Loan Entitlement, including seeking views on objectives and coverage, together with aspects such as whether restrictions on previous study should be amended to facilitate retraining and stimulate provision. From 2025, the Lifelong Loan Entitlement (LLE) will provide individuals with a loan entitlement equivalent to up to four years of post-18 education to use over their lifetime. It will be available for both modules and full years of study at higher technical and degree levels (levels 4 to 6), regardless of whether they are provided in colleges or universities. As part of the pathway towards the LLE, we will trial short course provision at Levels 4–6 to support in-work adults to upskill and retrain, enabling learners to flexibly build towards a full qualification in subjects crucial for net zero including STEM and digital innovation