A Letchworth-based trust that has long supported students has expanded its grants programme to include those taking on diploma courses and apprenticeships.

The Letchworth Civic Trust – formed in 1913 by garden city pioneer Sir Ebenezer Howard and nine others for the benefit of the community – grants more than £60,000 per year to help fund youngsters’ education, as well as wider town causes.

Grants of £300 for books and learning materials have long been available to students living in Letchworth who have earned a place at university, but the trustees have now decided to also make awards to those studying for diploma courses and apprentices.

Chairman Peter Jackson told the Comet: “A lot is being done for apprentices. We’ve got about 100 university students coming through but we’re in a position to expand that money-wise. Income has gone up in recent years.

“We’ve also widened it for those doing musical diplomas and things like that. We’ve been in touch with North Herts College, who have been helpful, and we liaise with all the sixth-form heads at schools with Letchworth-domiciled students.

“Anyone from Letchworth in higher education will now get this grant from us. We’re not sure how much it’s going to cost us, but we’re confident we’ll be able to cope.”

Lucy Hann, managing director of Hart Learning & Development – which is part of the Hart Learning Group along with North Herts College – said: “I am thrilled that Letchworth Civic Trust has extended their grant programme to include school leavers progressing to apprenticeships.

“Apprenticeships have the power to change the lives of young people by helping them realise their potential. We welcome Letchworth Civic Trust’s forward-thinking addition to this generous programme.”

The Letchworth Civic Trust’s programme also offers a ‘top-up’ grant of £100 for those entering the third year of their courses.

It also helps school pupils in families finding great difficulty supporting activities such as residential field visits or camps, and which the headteacher believes would benefit the child.

There are sometimes bursaries for exceptionally talented young athletes, musicians or swimmers.

If you’re interested in applying for a grant, see letchworthct.org.uk – applications should be sent to letchworthct@gmail.com or by post to Sally Jenkins, Letchworth Civic Trust, Broadway Chambers, Letchworth SG6 3AD.