Lees Brook Community Sports College

Dress Code EMA Policy Summary EMA Full Policy

Step Up Diploma in Business Level 2 BTEC Introductory Diploma in Vocational Studies Level 1 Certificate in Investigating the Hospitality Industry Diploma in Professional Cookery Level 2 Construction Level 1 Construction Level 2 Beauty Therapy Level 1 Beauty Therapy Level 2 Beauty Therapy Level 3 Hairdressing Hairdressing Level 2 Hairdressing Level 3 Health and Social Care Health and Social Care Level 2

The Skills Academy

Information for Students, Parents and Carers

EMA Policy – Summary

What is EMA?

EMA is a weekly payment to help you cover the costs of attending college. The money is paid directly into your bank account and should be used to pay for things like travelling to and from College, educational visits and equipment and clothing for your course. EMA is paid to you if you regularly attend your course and behave well at all times. You must also demonstrate that you are working hard while taking part on your course.

What would stop me receiving my EMA?

EMA will not be paid to you if you are continually absent or late for lessons, or if you break any rules regarding behaviour which are contrary to the Skills Academy Code of Conduct. A full list of the reasons which would stop your EMA being paid is available from the Skills Academy reception. These will also be explained to you when you start your course in September.

Can I be paid EMA if I have a good reason for being absent?

If you know you are going to be away from college on a particular day, you can apply for an authorised absence, for example, if you have a medical appointment which cannot be arranged outside College hours or if you have an interview for a job or a place at another college. You need to do this at least two days before the day that you need to be away. If you need to apply for an authorised absence, speak to your Form Tutor or Student Services Officer at the Skills Academy reception.

What happens if I am too ill to attend the Skills Academy?

At the Skills Academy we will allow you one episode of illness up to a maximum of three days per term, as long as you provide a letter from your parent/carer. If you are absent for more than three days in a term or if you absent a second time in a term, even if it is only for one day, you will not receive your EMA payment for that week.

Will I receive a bonus payment this year?

Unfortunately there will be no bonus payments in January 2011 and July 2011. This decision was made by the Government at the end of last year.

What do I do if I have a concern about my EMA?

If you have a concern about your EMA you can speak to one of our Student Support Officers, Mrs Till and Mrs Millward in the reception area. The Skills Academy telephone number if you are phoning from home is 01332 676479. You can also call the EMA Helpline – 0800 121 8989.