Trend Towards Shorter Scholarships
8.
9.
The period has provided further evidence of a trend towards shorter scholarships which started last year. For the second year running there has been a marked increase in the proportion of 4-6 month scholarships. Prior to 1991 the average duration of scholarships was about 10.1 months; for the past 2 years, the average has fallen to 8.7 months. This means that we are turning over our scholars at a faster rate and, given an unchanged rate of placement, our average monthly scholar strength certain to fall. This did in fact happen over the 3 month period May to July this year, when scholar numbers fell to
to a monthly average of 44, the lowest figure since 1985.
is
It is still too early to be certain of the trend, which may well reverse itself as economic conditions worldwide improve, but the situation must continue to be monitored for, as the Board will be aware, a good average monthly strength, preferably in the mid 50s at least, is important to the continued financial viability of the Scheme.
Administration
10.
Scholars maintenance allowance was increased from £540 to £560 per month on 1 September 1992.