Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is urging all diploma-qualified early childhood educators in Cootamundra to consider applying for a scholarship to boost their qualifications.
Time is almost up to apply for the next round of the NSW Government’s Rural and Remote Early Childhood Education scholarships, closing on June 9 2018.
Ms Cooke said these scholarships have already had an impact on services across Cootamundra and NSW.
“Since this scholarship program was introduced, the NSW Government has supported 109 educators across the state to upskill. That’s 109 more bachelor qualified teachers giving our children the best possible early childhood education,” she said.
“These scholarships are flexible and can be used for a number of costs incurred during studies. This could include textbooks, travel costs, technology to support study, or course fees.
“I strongly urge anyone who is eligible to think about applying.”
Minister for Early Childhood Education Sarah Mitchell said she is proud the NSW Government is continuing to support educators in rural and remote parts of the state.
“Everyone knows how crucial early childhood educators are in ensuring our children have the best start to their educational journeys as possible, no matter where they’re from,” Ms Mitchell said.
The scholarships, valued up to $10,000, are available to candidates working in a rural or remote community preschool, mobile preschool or long day care service and must not have already commenced an early childhood teaching degree.
For more information on the scholarships and how to apply, visit the Department of Education website at https://education.nsw.gov.au/early-childhood-education/working-in-early-childhood-education/professional-development-and-scholarships/rural-and-remote-early-childhood-teaching-scholarships
