Published on Tuesday, 3 October 2023 at 9:05:27 AM
The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder has celebrated 16 new recipients of the latest round of Early Childhood Education and Care scholarships, welcoming a new wave of future educators to the region.
The successful recipients received confirmation of their scholarships at a recent morning tea attended by City and TAFE representatives as well as their friends and family.
The scholarship funding was made possible by a $20,700 Department of Communities grant to assist the City in supporting students completing a Certificate III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care at Central Regional TAFE’s Kalgoorlie campus.
Mayor John Bowler said the scholarships provide an opportunity to attract more people to the industry, particularly at a time when it is so difficult to source qualified early childhood education and care workers in our region.
“Kalgoorlie-Boulder is facing one of the biggest shortages of early childhood education and care workers in Western Australia, with local centres finding it a real challenge to attract and retain staff. These scholarships assist with a solution.”
“The first round of the scholarship program saw 12 student recipients last year, and now, with the introduction of fee-free courses through the State Government’s Jobs and Skills WA program, the City was approved to extend the funding for this round to cover accommodation and other course costs, and to assist more students.”
“The early childhood education and care sector plays a pivotal role in our local economy and the broader community by enabling parents to re-enter the workforce.”
“The City is committed to supporting this sector and ensuring that children receive the best possible care and education.”
“Through these scholarships and our continued collaboration with education providers, we aim to address the workforce shortage and provide a bright future for our community's youngest members,” said Mayor Bowler.
The City’s Early Childhood Education and Care Scholarship was open to all students currently enrolled in an Early Childhood Education and Care course, as well as new students interested in this career path.
Successful recipients have their course tuition paid for, are guaranteed work placement for the practical component of their studies and are guaranteed employment in a local childcare centre upon completion of their qualification.
For more information on the City’s Early Childhood and Education Scholarships, visit the City’s website.
L-R – Round Two Scholarship Recipients (Ami Lee Richards, Edith Kafwimbi, Jackslina Gaaniri, Keisha Doyle, Giselle Vergara, Omkhwan Nonghan)
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