Degree apprenticeship support loan

W00tang

Hi, wanted to ask about degree apprenticeships since there is little I formation out there. I sadly think I know the answer but on the off chance i have missed something I'll ask anyway.

I start the degree I. September, and am in well paid work (my current job whilst I study). When the course starts my financial situation will stay the same,no more no less.
I currently have a mortgage, typical debts associated from recent wedding, even more recent baby etc. We're managing ok financially, not flush, but not panicking (yet!)

Anyway, the degree is being done in Sheffield and I'm in Liverpool and is in block weeks. 4 I. Year 1 and 3 in years 2 and 3. This means accomodation, food and whatever. After doing some estimates and shopping around, the cheapest I can find for accomodation for 4 nights is around £37 a night, factor in student eating I'd be looking at over 200 with train fares included.

First year that's an extra £1000 gone from my annual budget, without including any study supplies (I haven't owned a laptop in 5 years so that's gonna have to be bought too.

I've looked at student finance but because I am a full time worker I'm not classed as a student. I kinda see the point but I'm really concerned about the extra expenses. Is there anything I've missed? I know it's a long shot but thought it's worth a try.