Higher education charity set up for Sark students

Students could get help with the costs of higher education from a new charity launched on the island.

The Sark Higher Education Charity aims to help students aged 16 and over with grants, bursaries and sponsorships.

Financial support of up to 50% of their costs may be offered, up to a maximum of £5,000 a year.

In a letter to Sark residents, the charity said there is no funding available for students over 16 and it hoped to fill the gap.

The charity said the fund was open to students who have lived on Sark for a minimum of two years and wished to study for degrees, professional qualifications, diplomas or take on skills training.

The support is aimed at 16-25 year olds but older students would also be considered, the charity said.

It said students gaining vocational training and qualifications may benefit Sark "in the short or longer term".

It added: "We see this as preferable but not essential as we would not wish to limit the ambition and scope of what Sarkees might want to achieve."

The charity said it was set up with funding from local residents and it is seeking further funding from the Bailiwick and UK.

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