The article by Gavin Aitchison (A degree of debt, August 1) was a timely illustration of the difficult challenges facing students as they set out on a new and independent life.

Part of that learning is about managing their money and the choices they need to make. They will, of course, make mistakes - we all do.

Unfortunately, the cost of higher education is now so great that any major misjudgements can blight their lives for years as they face the reality of paying off huge debts after leaving university.

Most students will not have had any experience of working out what it costs to run a household (or even a room) - and many spend the first year's grant long before the summer recess. The charity Family Matters York is offering a two-hour budgeting course free for students going up to university this autumn.

Any student, or parent, wanting details should contact Mel Griggs on (01904) 651781.

Mel Griggs,

Grange Garth,

York.

Updated: 09:22 Thursday, August 04, 2005