We are writing to advise that the online application process for the 2026/2027 session will open on Monday 1 June 2026. From this date, young people can submit applications by visiting www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk and searching for Education Maintenance Allowance.

Please find attached the following correspondence from our Education Service:

• Letter to Head Teachers regarding EMAs (Session 2026/2027)
• Letter to Students regarding EMAs (Session 2026/2027)
• EMA Leaflet (PDF)

Please note that a small supply of leaflets and posters will also be provided for display in prominent locations throughout your school.

For your information, young people with dates of birth between 1 March 2007 and 28 February 2011 will be eligible to apply for an EMA award in the forthcoming session.

To help promote the scheme, we would be grateful if you could arrange, early next week, to email the households of relevant young people who will be continuing after the summer break. Please include the following message:

“Education Maintenance Allowance applications for Session 2026/2027 are now available online at www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk (search Education Maintenance Allowance).”

We would also appreciate it if you could attach the student and parent/carer letters, along with the EMA leaflet, to this communication.

In addition, we kindly ask that you promote the EMA scheme on your school’s social media channels at the beginning of June, July, August, and September.

We trust this information is helpful. If you require any further information or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the EMA team.

Kind Regards