Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch is encouraging Central Coast young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to apply for scholarships now available for students enrolled in education or training in 2021.
Tesch said 1,000 scholarships would be up for grabs, with successful applicants receiving $1,000 to help with school expenses and secondary support services.
Eligible students include those studying in year 10, 11 or 12 at a NSW high school or equivalent at TAFE or on a school based apprenticeship program, who are either a social housing client or living in out-of-home-care.
The support can be used for primary education services, such as textbooks, excursions, printers, laptops, smart phones, tutoring and stationery as well as secondary services including transport costs and medical support.
“As a former public school teacher I witnessed the incredible talent of our youth and I saw students from all backgrounds thrive in an accessible learning environment,” Tesch said.
“This scholarship program will enable bright kids to continue to excel and reach their goals with crucial funding to support their ambitions and ease some of the financial load from their shoulders.
“We all know schooling can get expensive, especially in the senior years of study, and any money towards these costs is a step in the right direction from the NSW Government.
“The rising cost of education has pushed many disadvantaged children into the background but they deserve the same opportunities as other students so they can work their way to a better future for themselves and their future families.
“We know implementing supports like this early benefits the future of our youth and I really encourage all students who are eligible take up this opportunity.
“I take my hat off to all the students who continue to push themselves when it feels like the odds are against them.
“I hope this scholarship ignites some hope in our disadvantaged youth and gives them that extra boost in their final years of study.”
Applications are now open and close on February 19, 2021.
Details at https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/families/support-programs/all-families/dcj-scholarships.
Source:
Media release, Dec 2
Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch