High school scholarships of $1000 a year for struggling kids offered by the NSW government

More students from disadvantaged families will have the chance to pursue higher education with the NSW Government’s expansion of a successful scholarship scheme.

Minister for Family and Community Services Brad Hazzard said the FACS High School Scholarship Program now offers $1,000 a year to students in Year 10, 11 and 12 as well as those studying a VET course, school-based apprenticeship or traineeship.

“Previously this program was only available to students in Year 12 living in social housing to complete their HSC studies but we are expanding it across the board.

“Now students in social housing or on the waiting list, in Out of Home Care, receiving private rental assistance, or living in crisis accommodation, can apply.

“But more importantly, students can apply again each year – potentially up to seven years – through to the end of their tertiary or vocational training,” Mr Hazzard said.

More than 200 scholarships are on offer. Mentoring assistance will also be available to 20 regional students in a pilot program. Funds can be put toward school expenses including textbooks, course fees or practical supports such as child care and internet access.

Kirilly Lam, 17, from Cambridge Park, was awarded a scholarship last year. She used the funds to purchase textbooks, a printer and obtain internet access, giving her more time to study at home and help her family care for her older sister who is quadriplegic.

“Before, I’d have to stay back at school to use the internet and study. By being able to study at home, it meant my Dad didn’t have to leave work so early,” Ms Lam said.

“It took the pressure off my parents. I was also able to get textbooks for Year 12, and help to print all the notes I needed.”

Ms Lam was offered and accepted a place at Western Sydney University to study nursing. It is her life-long dream to become a paediatric nurse.

Scholarship applications open on January 16 and close on February 24, 2017. Successful applicants will be notified in late May 2017.

Students are encouraged to apply online at www.facs.nsw.gov.au/education

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