The Department for Education has quietly the introduction of the lifelong learning entitlement. Students won’t be able to apply for LLE funding until September 2025, seven months after the planned February launch of the first LLE applications. The teaching of courses funded through the LEE will now not start until at least January 2026, rather than September 2025. In a letter sent to providers last week, new skills minister Luke Hall said the Student Loans Company (SLC) needed more time to develop its systems. Hall said “Having worked closely with the SLC on the delivery of its new LLE application and payments system, the government understands the great challenge of changing finance systems whilst at all costs ensuring a seamless transition for learners and providers.” On its current timetable, full years of study of level 4 to 6 HE courses and higher technical qualifications will be available through the LLE from January 2026. Click here for more.
