Vocational Education and Training students from regional and rural NSW are being encouraged to apply for the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW Foundation VET Scholarship, with support ranging from $3000 to $6000 for full or part-time students.The scholarships aim to help students in regional areas achieve their desired career path; lending a helping hand financially to support anything from rental cost to textbooks and placement travel.Shelley Hollingworth, from Broken Hill, is one such student and said the RAS VET Scholarship was helping achieve her desired career.“I am very passionate about my local community and through studying a Diploma in Nursing, I wish to give back to Broken Hill once I finish my studies,” Miss Hollingworth said.“To do so I need to complete compulsory clinical placement, which means relocating for a few weeks a year.
“With the RAS VET Scholarship I have been able to cover both the accommodation and travel costs.”
Over the past nine years, the VET and Rural Scholarship programs have helped more than 470 students across the state.RAS Foundation manager Cecilia Logan said the funds could provide further opportunities for students in regional and rural NSW.“VET institutions offer such a great variety of courses and skills which are vital to many regional areas, but it is not always easy to fund the cost that comes with further education,” Mrs Logan said.“The VET scholarships aim to reduce some of the barriers for students to continue their education and help them along the way.”Applications for the scholarships close on Sunday, January 19.To apply, or to support the program, visit: www.rasnsw.com.au/foundation/