BARNSLEY adults currently locked out of accessing education will be given the opportunity to return through ‘once-in-a-generation’ reforms.

From September, student finance will be available for retraining later in life alongside bite-sized, shorter courses for the first time in history.

Adults balancing responsibilities such as work and childcare will now have a new route into university and college thanks to changes by the Labour government to create a new, more flexible student finance system - a move labelled as a ‘game-changer’ by Barnsley South MP Stephanie Peacock.

The funding of these new smaller courses mean people can gain qualifications over time, rather than needing to complete a rigid three-year full-time degree in one go, which previously locked thousands of people out of learning.

The modules on offer will focus on subjects that will tackle skills shortages, including economics and computing, engineering and architecture, as well as health and social care.

Stephanie said: “Traditionally, higher and further education has been built around full-time degrees and qualifications taken straight after school or college.

“But that doesn’t work for the many people in Barnsley who need to fit study around life commitments or want to return to learning later down the line to upskill.

“It’s a game-changer for people in my Barnsley South constituency who want to better their prospects through education but still must juggle busy lives.

“For too long, people haven’t felt like they’ve had the opportunity to pursue the job they want or the skills they need because they think they’ve missed the boat or don’t have the time.

“Labour is backing working people across Barnsley South by giving them the chance to seize opportunities, unlock new skills and drive growth.”

Applications for student finance will open in September for anyone starting courses or the new modules from January 2027.

Under the new system, people will be able to access funding equivalent to four years of post-18 study, currently worth up to £39,160.

This money can be used flexibly across the new modules, shorter courses or full degrees over the course of their working lives.

Eligible students will also be able to apply for maintenance support to help with living costs and funding will be provided in smaller amounts linked to the size of the course being studied, rather than only through full academic years.

Skills Minister, Jacqui Smith, added: “Financial support should be available whether you want to do a degree, take a short course, or retrain later in life.

“Our changes will make that happen, with the option to access student finance in any stage of life.

“Whether it’s fitting study around a job, retraining for a completely new career, juggling childcare, or getting qualifications later in life, the new entitlement will open up new opportunities for thousands more people to build the careers they want and get on in life.”