News

Fraud fear stops learning grants

Childcarers in England who have accessed training grants through the Individual Learning Account (ILA) programme will be contacted by the Department for Education and Skills soon to tell them of a decision to wind down the scheme. Education and skills secretary Estelle Morris said last week that the programme was being suspended in England following fraud allegations. No new applicants will be accepted from now on. ILAs, launched in 1998 to help with training costs through a grant of up to Pounds 200 towards educational courses, will close in England from 7 December.They will continue in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, where they will be reviewed.

Education and skills secretary Estelle Morris said last week that the programme was being suspended in England following fraud allegations. No new applicants will be accepted from now on. ILAs, launched in 1998 to help with training costs through a grant of up to 200 towards educational courses, will close in England from 7 December.They will continue in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, where they will be reviewed.

A letter will be sent to account holders. Ms Morris said learning begun by existing account holders will continue to be supported if it is booked with the ILA Centre by 7 December.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here