Camera for DD13 GCSE Photography

[youngestisapyscho]

My DD is starting a 3yr GCSE Photography course in September so we need to get her a camera...
I have seen this one
www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/cameras/digital-cameras/bridge-cameras/fujifilm-s9900w-bridge-camera-10120092-pdt.html

It takes AA batteries.
My question is, is it better to have a camera with a rechargeable battery, or do ones running on AAs last just as long? We do have rechargeable AA batteries, so spares could be carried with her.
Reviews say it will take 300 shots on the AA batteries.
Thanks.