Not really a politics thread, I know, but posted it here primarily for Riven, whom I know was worried about this, as she pops in here.
See:
www.moneysavingexpert.com/family/ema-get-paid-to-study
"Urgent! Last chance for 16-18 year-old students to claim EMA
The up to £30/week education allowance is ending, but you can still get it for this school year"
and
"IMPORTANT NEWS FOR STUDENTS IN ENGLAND: From 1 January 2011 EMA will no longer be available for new applicants, so act fast and apply now if you're eligible. In the new 2011/2012 academic year the EMA scheme will cease completely in England.."
Hope that helps someone.