For others, further education provides the level of education of their choice. Further education should therefore have the same level of support and funding as higher education. The needs of under-represented groups in particular should be addressed. Beyond that there should be a means-tested grant and loans system so those from families with all levels of income can have access to independent support. In principle, there is no difficulty with students working during the summer holidays, but there are problems in remote areas.
Some students also have practical course work during their holidays.
A system is needed which is based on the provision of support over 52 weeks. The student funding system works on a 32 week year, while the renting system works on a 52 week year. There is therefore a serious mismatch. Both private and university landlords charge for periods when students are not there. Funding should be skewed to target other areas such as transport costs in remote places, books, equipment, and the special equipment needed by students with disabilities or learning difficulties.