Cost-of-living support will be provided to tertiary students as part of the State Government’s mission to create the next generation of dedicated teachers.
Minister for Education Ben Caroll announced the opening of the Secondary Teaching Scholarships Teaching under the State Government’s $93.2 million investment – which will offer up to 4000 teaching students the support they need to pursue secondary teaching at university.
Scholarships are available to Victorian students who enrol in accredited secondary school or dual primary secondary teaching degrees in 2024 and 2025 and meet study load criteria.
Graduates are encouraged to work in a state government secondary or specialist school after completing their degree, with further incentives available for two years as they start their teaching career.
The total scholarship amount for students who complete their studies is based on the HELP fees charged by the Commonwealth Government – which can range to between $18,000 for a four-year undergraduate degree or $9,000 for a two-year postgraduate degree.
Secondary Teaching Scholarships form part of a $229.8 million investment by the State Government to attract, retain and support the teacher workforce.
This investment also includes $95.7 million to support more graduate teachers in government schools and $27 million for the Targeted Financial Incentives Program that provides $50,000 to assist teachers from Victoria, interstate and overseas relocate to hard-to-staff positions in government schools.
Minister for Education said the Secondary Teaching Scholarships would help grow Victoria’s talented and dedicated teaching workforce.
“We are backing incoming university students, as they prepare to educate the next generation, by providing scholarships and financial support throughout their teaching degree and career,” he said.
“The cost of living should not hinder a long and rewarding career in teaching and these scholarships will help our future educators overcome financial barriers so that they can focus on their important work.
“The Secondary Teaching Scholarships is another initiative helping to grow our talented and dedicated teaching workforce in the Education State.”
Member for Yan Yean Lauren Kathage said the program was a great opportunity.
“What an amazing opportunity this scholarship program creates for students who are currently learning in our classrooms but dream of one day leading them,” she said.
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