Multiply for 18 yo on 31 August

Unfortunately, I think the 31 August boundary does apply, particularly if you have Study Programme funding. Admittedly, because there aren't any national funding rules for Multiply that I can see, only those published by assorted MCAs, it's difficult to be certain, but it's a general rule of thumb for these learners that they are 18 for the whole academic year, unlike every other age above 18 which takes start date.

Thanks Steve, as we thought really then.  What about a 19 year old with an EHCP who would be funded as a young learner - would that be the same?

I was concerned when I read this as we have been using age at enrolment rather than age at the start of the academic year, especially so as no-one said anything different.  But I've managed to dig out the guidance from the Multiply team that clarifies this.  It was sent out on the 3rd August 2023 as Multiply Action Update #14: Age Eligibility and states

Age Eligibility:

It has been brought to our attention that the wording regarding the age eligibility requirements for learners participating in Multiply differs slightly in some documents that we have issued to Local Areas. We would first of all like to apologise for any confusion this has caused.

We want to be clear that the original wording issued at the beginning of the Multiply programme is correct. i.e. learners have to be 19+ at the time of them participating in Multiply provision.

This slightly differs from the eligibility requirements for AEB funded provision where learners have to be 19+ when the academic year begins.

We understand the confusion that this may have caused with our recently updated technical guidance stating that we are aligned with the AEB. We are working with colleagues to get this corrected as soon as possible.

Ooh, that is interesting Paul. Was this sent out to "everyone" do you know?

As far as I know, yes, it went to everyone with a Multiply allocation but we are bcc'd in so I can't say for certain

Thanks!