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Cost of living - managing your finances while attending college

With the cost of living increasing, many are looking to be more careful with their money.

What financial support is available at college?

There’s a range of financial support and bursaries available at Banbury and Bicester College for eligible students.   

These bursaries allow students with financial barriers to access everything they need to attend college and thrive on their course. They may be used to pay for essential travel, meal credits, books, equipment or childcare.   

They are discretionary and the amount received will depend on individual circumstance and financial need.   

We also have financial bursaries for 19+ students still available.   

Travel support – getting to and from college

If the cost of travel is affecting your ability to get to college, we may be able to help!  

If you live three miles or more from the nearest Activate Learning campus offering your course, you may be eligible.   

You may be able to use your travel bursary for travel passes or travel expenses. Please refer to financial support and bursaries for more information regarding travel bursaries.  

Eating at college

Breakfast Club,  8.15 to 9am only

In support of our students and ensuring they start the day with something in their stomachs, we have put together an offer which is free to select at any of our Recharge main outlets. The strict bit: This is to be used only once per day, Students must select one option, Student lanyards must be worn and the options are not transferable for other items.

Just say “Breakfast club offer” when asking for your selected option.

Breakfast Club – choice of each option

Option 1

  • Standard Cup of Tea or Americano Coffee – Bottle Water
  • 2 Slices Toast (Spread/Jam)

Option 2

  • Standard Cup of Tea or Americano Coffee – Bottle Water
  • Cornflakes/Rice Krispies – with Milk ( Dairy/Soya available)

You may be eligible for free meals (breakfast or lunch) at college.   

Please refer to financial support and bursaries for more information regarding meal credits.   

Food and clothing and young people support services in Banbury

Here is a selection of local food, clothing, young people and family support services in Banbury. 

Banbury Community Church  

Banbury Community Church offer food bank, furniture projects and family support. 

They open from 10am –12pm on: 

  • Tuesday at The Peoples Church, Horse Fair  
  • Wednesday at St. Joseph's Church, Edmunds Road 
  • Thursday at St. Francis’ Church, Highlands 

They can be contacted on 01295 661301 or via email at info@banbury.foodbank.org.uk. 

Banbury Young Homeless Project 

Banbury Young Homeless Project (BYHP) supports and signposts young people and families to ensure they are receiving the support needed.  

They offer support in the community, at home or over the phone. They can help with food bank, housing and benefit referrals. 

They are open Monday to Friday from 9am–5pm and can be contacted on 01295 259442, via email at enquiries@byhp.org.uk or on the Banbury Young Homeless Project website.        

Sourcing sustainable fashion

Looking for sustainable fashion that’s eco-conscious and budget friendly? Check out:   

  • Vinted 
  • EBay  
  • Depop   
  • Facebook Marketplace   
  • Charity shops  

Are you concerned about money?

If you are concerned about the cost of living and could benefit from support, please contact Student Support.    

We’re here to support your studies and make sure you have everything you need to attend and thrive at college.