A pilot scheme in Oxfordshire to help workers seek new skills is to be extended across the country, the Government announced.

The Adult Learning Grant, which gives eligible adults up to £30 a week towards the cost of learning, is targeted at young working adults over 19 in full or part-time jobs who do not have the equivalent of five GCSEs or two A-Levels.

It has already been running in 25 areas in the country, including Oxfordshire, since 2003.

Skills Secretary John Denham has now launched a £35m fund to expand the scheme and help 30,000 people a year boost their CVs.

Anyone interested in applying for the grant should visit Student Services at their local college, call 0800 100 900 or visit www.direct.gov.uk/alg