One hundred apprentices across NSW have been awarded a Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship worth a total of $1.5 million, funded by the NSW Government.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole has congratulated local scholarship recipient Jacob Crye from Oberon Farm Meats on his achievement and commitment to vocational education and training.
“The annual scholarships, worth $15,000 over three years, support apprentices who are experiencing financial or personal hardship, demonstrate a high aptitude for vocational education and training, and show a commitment to their training,” Mr Toole said.
“These grants are also a recognition that while apprenticeships are vital to ensuring our region has a pipeline of skilled workers, we also understand it’s not always easy to complete an apprenticeship.
“The scholarship program is all about giving aspiring apprentices an opportunity with some added financial support to help start, change or further their career.”
Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the NSW Government is committed to ensuring training for apprentices remains accessible to all.
“A Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity to get ahead and I congratulate the 100 recipients of the scholarships as outstanding apprentices in NSW,” Mr Lee said.
“Where people are supported to engage fully in education, training, skilled employment, or a combination, they are more likely to have a secure economic future and contribute positively to the community.
“I encourage all the people of NSW to explore the range of initiatives and programs available to support apprentices, including the Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship program, as well as NSW Government initiatives such as the JobTrainer program.”
The scholarship program is named in honour of the late Bert Evans AO, a passionate advocate of vocational education for more than 30 years.