Home Education and learning School finance and support EMA and University Bursary awards
Extending free school meals

From September 2023, we are extending universal free school meals to include children who live in the borough and attend secondary school (up to the age of 16).

+ If you are already get free meals from your school, you do not need to do anything.
+ If you do not get benefits and have an annual net earned income of more than £7,400, you do not need to do anything.
+ If you get benefits but are not currently receiving free school meals, it is important that you fill in your child’s registration form.

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Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) and University Bursary schemes

EMA and University bursary applications are now closed.

All applications will be processed by the end of June 2025.

Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA)

Education Maintenance Allowance allows pupils in Sixth Form schools and colleges to apply for £600 to support them with their studies.

Eligibility for EMA

  • You need to be between 16 and 19 years old on 1 September 2024.
  • You must be on a full time study programme at a recognised sixth form provision/college.
  • Your household annual income (excluding Housing benefit and Council tax reduction) needs to be below £25,000.
  • You will need to have been a resident of Tower Hamlets for three years unless you are a refugee on the Ukraine or Afghan scheme.
  • You will need at least a 95% attendance record at the end of your first term.
    • If you are below this we will make allowances for authorised absence.

The University Bursary will support students with living costs at university. Students can apply for £1,500  to help with with their undergraduate studies.

Eligibility for University Bursary

  • You must not receive the Canary Wharf Education Trust fund.
  • You need to be over 18 years old at on 1 September 2024.
  • You must be on a full-time study programme.
  • Your household annual income (excluding Housing benefit and Council tax reduction) needs to be below £25,000.
  • You will need to have been a resident of Tower Hamlets for 3 years unless you are a refugee on the Ukraine or Afghan scheme.