ALLOWED TO LEARN: The new Education Maintenance Allowance launched by the Government has netted £100 each for 380 Bexley students who are still in school or college this month.

Students who continue in education after GCSEs and whose household income is under £30,000, are eligible for the payments to enable them to continue their studies. Further cash is paid in July and October if they continue to do well.

PUPILS RECYCLE: Burnt Oak Junior School, Burnt Oak Lane, Sidcup, has signed up for a recycling scheme. The Recycool scheme recycles used printer cartridges and mobile phones. The school is hoping for support from businesses through free collection boxes for their old cartridges and unwanted mobiles. Call 020 8300 5854.

TOP CLASS: Sir John Jones and Dr Rick Shade were among the speakers at a shared training day in support of Bexley's schools excellence cluster. An excellence cluster is a group of primary and secondary schools working together to raise pupils' aspirations and achievements.

GOOD SPORT?: Voluntary sports clubs and individuals with sporting talent can apply for grants of up to £500 from Bexley Sports Council. The next round of applications will be considered on March 14. For an application form, call 020 8303 7777 ext 2963.