There is no maintenance support for island students under the age of 18 who attend the University College Isle of Man.

Education Minister Graham Cregeen confirmed the position in the House of Keys on Tuesday. Course fees at the college are paid by the government.

He was responding to questions from Julie Edge (Onchan) about what financial support was available to students in the Isle of Man.

Ms Edge commented: ’There are a number of students that do leave school at 16 and they have no form of income if they are on a course at [UCM].’

The minister outlined the funding the Department of Education, Sport and Children does offer for students once they reach school leaving age, including student awards funding.

’This includes tuition fees and maintenance grants for students attending eligible courses at University College Isle of Man or UK overseas universities,’ he said.

The latest funding regulations were approved by Tynwald last month,

He added: ’The department also provides funding for disabled students, additional DSA funding support is also available for disabled students where they will incur additional costs in attending their courses as a direct result of their disability.

’Allowances are available to help with such matters as the cost of a non-medical helper, specialist equipment and or other course-related costs. This is available for students attending both on- and off-Island courses to study.’

There is also a vocational training assistance scheme.

’This is a discretionary scheme with successful outcomes funded on a shared cost basis,’ said Mr Cregeen. ’My department’s contribution is 30% of the cost of the training limited to a maximum of £1,500 per individual in any 12-month period.’

The government also supports trade apprenticeships with the DESC reimbursing employers the trade rates specified by the Construction Federation for trainees.