Trainees named top of the class

Three Central Coast students have each won a $20,000 Harding Miller Education Foundation Scholarship to help them continue their studies.

The three were among more than 700 current Year 9 students who applied for the scholarships, which are for young women who are passionate about their studies, but who may lack opportunities to achieve their academic potential and dreams.

Through the scholarships, girls are supported in a variety of practical ways including with equipment, computers, internet connections, textbooks, tutoring and coaching, which they may otherwise not have access to.

The three Central Coast scholarship winners are Emily and training organisations in the Central Coast and Hunter regions.

Zali Reynolds of Hamlyn Terrace was named Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year.

She is studying Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance, employed by Central Coast Health District, and goes to Northlakes High School.

Regan Beaver of Wallarah attends MacKillop Catholic College and was named Schoolbased Apprentice/Trainee of the Year.

She is studying Certificate III in

Retail while still attending MacKillop Catholic College and working at KFC Lake Haven. Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Tim Crakanthorp said the finalists and winners at the awards showcased the world-class vocational education and training (VET) sector in the region and demonstrated the breadth of rewarding career opportunities offered by VET, providing real skills for real careers.

“This year, on the 68th anniversary of these prestigious awards, we received a record number of entries showcasing the energy and enthusiasm around VET in NSW,” he said.