LOCAL first year apprentices facing financial or personal hardship will be supported with a $15,000 scholarship to undertake their trade and study, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall today announcing the opening of the annual Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship.
Since 2020, eight apprentices from across the region have shared in $120,000 from the program.
Mr Marshall said scholarship applications were now open to assist 120 people start, change, or further their career.
“With current cost of living pressures there’s not much left over from a first year apprentice wage to meet other expenses which come with doing an apprenticeship,” Mr Marshall said.
“Whether you need to purchase new tools, cover fuel or car maintenance, or pay for additional study, these scholarships have helped people overcome personal barriers to finish their apprenticeships and follow their trade calling.
“The variety of apprenticeships which have been supported across our region are diverse, with bakers, hairdressers, fencing contractors and security installers just some of the occupations to receive funding.
“The scholarship provides $5,000 over three years to support apprentices who demonstrate a high aptitude for vocational education and training and are committed to their on-the-job and formal training.
“Apprenticeships are a critical part of ensuring our region has a pipeline of skilled workers, and I urge everyone entering their first year of a trade to investigate their eligibility.”
The Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships are in addition to the 100,000 fee-free apprenticeships and 70,000 fee-free traineeships and other low-fee courses funded by the NSW Government.
Applications are now open and will close Friday, 27 May 2022.
For more information, and to apply, visit www.education.nsw.gov.au/skills-nsw/bert-evans-scholarships or phone 13 28 11.