James Savage speaks to
Andy Burnham, Shadow Education Minister

Extended Diploma in Science student,
James Savage, represented York College on a student panel at a meeting with Andy Burnham, the Shadow Education Minister.

James voiced his concerns about the abolishment of the Education Maintenance Allowance and put forward a case for students who use EMA to cover transport costs to and from college, use EMA to buy meals whilst at college, and use EMA payments to purchase books and equipment. The meeting was held at Portcullis House in London and was organised by the 157 Group.

James said: "Andy Burnham listened to a panel of nine students and several college principals. The panel told him, in no uncertain terms, that the abolition of EMA would have a devastating effect on students and the further education sector. I was able to tell my story, pointing out that there are faults with the current EMA system, but they can be fixed. It is important for MPs to recognise how much students rely on EMA payments. Without EMA payments students will struggle to continue their education."