Life in The World

ONE of Darlington’s biggest employers is expanding its presence at Lingfield Point business park. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has been based in the award-winning Memphis building since 2008, and now employs more than 1300 people, almost double the number since it first set up in Darlington. It has now expanded into the stylish Studios office space – taking an additional 11,000 sq ft to house the team processing Disabled Students’ Allowances, the training team and some technical development and support staff. Derek Ross, Director of Operations and Customer Service at SLC, said the move confirms SLC’s continued commitment to Lingfield Point. “We're consolidating the small offices we had in the Beehive offices to create extra space for IT development and support staff. “The creative and supportive nature of the business park, as well as its central location and great transport links, make this an excellent environment where our staff can carry o...

One way to make college more affordable is to pay less for tuition. Your high school guidance counselor or the school’s Financial Aid Office can help you determine availability and requirements for these money-saving programs. Tuition guarantees. A growing number of colleges will now guarantee tuition rates for four years, and in some cases longer. Avoiding annual cost increases can save you thousands of dollars over the course of your child’s education. Tuition reciprocity programs. Many state schools offer in-state or reduced tuition to residents of neighboring states that also participate in the reciprocity program. If your child plans to attend a reciprocal school, you could save more than half on tuition costs compared to paying out-of-state tuition. Tuition discounts. A limited number of schools will discount or even waive fees for additional credit hours after you pay for a 12 or 15 course load. Placement exams. Earn college credit before you arrive on campus by t...