The Andrews Labor Government is offering a helping hand to students in Werribee district facing financial barriers to completing their education and training.

Member for Werribee Tim Pallas today encouraged Victorian students to apply for a Lynne Kosky Memorial Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) Scholarship.

Students aged 17 or under planning to study VCAL in 2018 can apply for up to $25,000 in support through the scholarship, with applications closing on 27 September this year.

The scholarships celebrate the legacy of the former Bracks and Brumby Government Minister, Lynne Kosky, who passed away in December 2014.

Now in its third year, the scholarship provides students with financial assistance of $5,000 per year for up to five years to keep them engaged in education and training.

During her time as Minister for Education Lynne Kosky reshaped Victoria’s education system so it was fairer for students of all backgrounds and abilities and a key component of this work was the introduction of the VCAL.

Students who complete VCAL studies can choose from a number of options, including attending TAFE, or undertaking an apprenticeship or traineeship. It is a “hands-on” option for students in years 11 and 12 and gives them practical work-related experience as well as literacy and numeracy skills.

For more information and to apply by 27 September visit: www.eduweb.vic.gov.au/scholarships/LynneKoskyVCALScholarships.aspx

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“These scholarships are a great way to help out students in Werribee district who may need some financial assistance to stay in education or training.”

“Lynne Kosky worked tirelessly to make sure every Victorian could access a quality education. This scholarship continues that legacy and I encourage students in Werribee district to put their hand up to apply for these scholarships.”