Education Grant Helps Kendal College Student Tread the Boards

17 July 2009

A budding thespian is on track for a life in the theatre after moving across the country to train in the Lake District. Her big break was made possible thanks to an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) from the Learning and Skills Council (LSC).

Charlee Earp moved nearly 200 miles from Peterborough to Milnthorpe to enrol in a National Diploma in Performing Arts at Kendal College. While she trained in drama, song and dance, Charlee received a £30 a week EMA which helped pay for drama workshops, dance outfits and towards her rent.

The 19-year-old has just completed her course, and in September she will begin a degree in Theatrical Studies at Kendal College. Eventually Charlee plans to set up her own travelling theatre company based in Cumbria.

EMA is a grant of up to £30 a week available to 16 to 18-year-olds to help with the cost of continuing with their studies after leaving compulsory education. Students that are eligible for EMA can use their grants to help towards the costs of travel to college, text books, course materials, or any other costs related to their education.

Charlee said: “Enrolling on the performing arts course at Kendal College is one of the best decisions I have ever made. It’s been amazing and I’ve made a number of friends for life. I first visited Kendal to see my uncle, and as soon as I saw Kendal College I just had this gut feeling I had to study there. I moved 200 miles from Peterborough to Cumbria to enrol as a student.

“I would encourage teenagers who are looking to continue their studies after school but are worried about how they will afford it to look into receiving an Education Maintenance Allowance. Receiving my EMA really helped me out and I’m now looking forward to studying for my degree in drama.”

As part of her studies, in June Charlee starred as Bunsoo in Kendal College’s production of the musical Thoroughly Modern Millie at the Brewery Arts Centre in Kendal.

Performing Arts Lecturer Hilary Pezet said: “There’s absolutely no doubt that the support that Charlie received from the EMA helped her to succeed and meet the challenges of the performing arts programmes here at Kendal College and thanks to that, Charlee surely has a bright future ahead of her.”

If you are thinking about continuing in learning this year it’s time to start looking at your options. EMA could help you – to find out if you are eligible visit www.direct.gov.uk/ema or call 0800 121 8989 today, or contact Student Services on 01539 814700, enquiries@kendal.ac.uk

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