Further and higher education for young carers

Further and higher education for young carers

As a young carer there are ways to get support and advice to help you get to college or university.

Next steps for your education

Planning your next steps as a young carer can feel daunting. You may need to think about things like:

• how to get support from your college or university
• your rights as you become an adult carer
• fitting in study around other commitments

There is support and advice available if you decide to continue with your education.

Where to get advice

Before applying speak with your teachers at school or college.

You can visit your local carer centre for advice and support when applying to college or university. Find your local carer centre.

When you’re thinking about which college or university to apply to, contact their student support team. They will be able to tell you about the support they offer carers.

If you’re thinking of applying for an apprenticeship you can contact your local Skills Development Scotland centre. Read about how other young carers have completed apprenticeships.

If you’re living in Scotland and applying to college or university here

You can check if the college or university have either a:

• going higher in Scotland award
• going further in Scotland award

These awards are given by Carers Trust Scotland in recognition of universities or colleges giving support, advice and resources to student carers.

Find out more about support you can get at university in Scotland.

If you live in Scotland but you’re applying to college or university elsewhere in the UK

If you’re in Scotland, but planning to apply somewhere else in the UK for university, find out more about:

• tips from young adult carers starting university
• students with caring responsibilities
• additional funding from Student Awards Agency Scotland