In a pivotal masterclass organised for our Year 13 learners, Chloe, an Education Liaison Officer from Hertfordshire University, shed light on the crucial aspects of student finance and budgeting for university life. With university on the horizon, understanding the financial landscape becomes as essential as academic preparation. 

Kicking off the session, Chloe shared insights from her own university experience studying physics and delved into her current role, setting the stage for a practical discussion on managing finances in higher education. Through an interactive quiz, she tackled common misconceptions about student finance, offering clarity on eligibility criteria and dispelling myths that often cloud students' understanding. 

Chloe broke down the differences between maintenance loans, bursaries, and tuition fee loans, providing a clear picture of the financial support available to students. She also demystified the repayment process, ensuring learners left with a solid grasp of how and when repayments kick in post-graduation. 

The conversation then moved to the everyday realities of managing living costs while studying, highlighting the varying expenses students face whether living on campus or commuting. From accommodation and food to travel and textbooks, Chloe provided practical advice on budgeting for these inevitable costs, equipping our learners with the knowledge to plan effectively for their university journey. 
  
"We are immensely grateful to Chloe for delivering such an informative session on student finance," expressed Janice, Careers and Progression lead, "Her insights have equipped our learners with the tools they need to navigate the financial aspects of university life confidently." 

This masterclass is part of our ongoing commitment to prepare our learners for all facets of university life, ensuring they step into higher education informed, prepared, and ready to succeed.