The Andrews Labor Government is offering a helping hand to students facing financial barriers to completing their education and training.
Minister for Education James Merlino today encouraged Victorian students to apply for a Lynne Kosky Memorial Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) Scholarship.
Students aged 17 or under planning to study VCAL in 2018 can apply for up to $25,000 in support through the scholarship, with applications closing on 27 September this year.
The scholarships celebrate the legacy of the former Bracks and Brumby Government Minister, who passed away in December 2014.
Now in its third year, the scholarship provides students with financial assistance of $5,000 per year for up to five years to keep them engaged in education and training.
It has already had a positive impact on many students across Victoria. Last year, Narre Warren South P–12 College’s Dylan Henry and Wodonga Senior Secondary College’s Crystal Strobel received scholarships in recognition of their significant contributions to their communities.
Dylan used his scholarship funds to help with the costs of uniforms, equipment and text books and is studying Electrotechnology with the goal of becoming an electrician. Crystal purchased a computer with her scholarship funds to assist with studies; she is studying her Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care) alongside her traditional VCAL subjects.
During her time as Minister for Education Lynne Kosky reshaped Victoria’s education system so it was fairer for students of all backgrounds and abilities and a key legacy of this work was the introduction of the VCAL.
Students who complete VCAL studies can choose from a number of options, including attending TAFE, or undertaking an apprenticeship or traineeship. It is a “hands-on” option for students in years 11 and 12 and gives them practical work-related experience as well as literacy and numeracy skills.
For more information and to apply visit:
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino
“These scholarships are a great way to recognise today’s inspiring students who may need some financial help to stay in education or training.”
“Lynne Kosky worked tirelessly to make sure every Victorian could access a quality education and we want as many students as possible to apply for these scholarships.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020