Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024 23
www.countrynews.com.au
,
SCHOLARSHIPS BURSARIES & BOARDING OPPORTUNITIES 13-page feature
All parents want the best for their children. And that includes a good education. In fact, education is perhaps the single most important decision parents will make affecting the long-term future of their child or children. It will affect the direction of their lives, while having a signi¬ficant influence on the type of contributor they will become to their community. As well as providing them with a solid foundation of academic instruction, a good education can heighten their social awareness and expose them to the wider world and a sense of responsibility. Giving them every chance to not just succeed but excel in their future lives. Therefore, a child’s schooling should be in an environment where each student’s strengths and potential are recognised, nurtured, and encouraged. Where they are equipped not just with the A, B, C of basic curricula, but the
all-round skills to take on tertiary study and/or careers. And the option of a scholarship is a remarkable start to some of the nation’s nest schools. A part or full scholarship is a stimulating option that, if successful, could provide your daughter or son the choice of more than one school. A quality school doesn’t just encourage achievement; it nurtures self-confidence and the capacity of its pupils to help not just themselves but others as well. Creating that environment is not easy, but the best schools have spanned three centuries to achieve the choice of subjects, build the facilities that will enhance academic performance and underpin it with a healthy and active lifestyle and diverse extracurricular opportunities. Being able to participate on a much wider stage, from sport to drama, from debating to creating, is essential for the school to meet its responsibility in
helping each student’s parents provide their child with every opportunity. By the time each student has completed their secondary schooling and is preparing for further study or to pursue different avenues they will have been given the foundation to cope with the decisions to come. Obviously, there are many good schools, but accessing the best is often as much a financial decision as an academic one. And for rural and regional families, this is compounded with boarding fees and relinquishing their child into a new family.
Today, the McPherson Group provides parents with essential reading through this important educational feature. Assumption College, Bendigo TAFE, Geelong Grammar School, GOTAFE, Melbourne Girls Grammar School, Melbourne Grammar School, Moama Anglican Grammar, St Catherine’s School, St Patrick’s College and Xavier College are among many of the states and country’s leading educational institutions taking part. Representing a proud heritage and a proven commitment to the highest of standards in the academic world, these schools also operate at the cutting edge of education. They represent unparalleled pathways for their students, so when the time comes for your children to enter the workforce, they will have all the advantages and opportunities that will help them build a successful future. We encourage all parents to carefully consider the options in today’s feature.
109335
Your child’s future is in your hands
24 Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024
www.countrynews.com.au
SCHOLARSHIPS BURSARIES & BOARDING OPPORTUNITIES ,
WALK YOUR OWN PATH AT ST CATHERINE’S For Charlotte Rowe, from Hamilton, Victoria, what surprised her the most about boarding at St Catherine’s Girls’ School in inner-city Melbourne was the sense of freedom and space she experienced. “One thing I wasn’t expecting was the sense of freedom, which is a tribute to the size of the school’s boarding house, which is smaller than most boarding schools. This was important to me, having enjoyed space growing up on a farm; I came to realise that
mention the realisation of taking a new path, different to my siblings.” “However, I soon realised that it is completely normal to feel uncomfortable and unsettled at times, but you shouldn’t let that shroud the positive aspects of a new opportunity, such as meeting inspiring people and gaining new experiences.” Charlotte graduated from St Catherine’s School in 2023 after enjoying her final year in the Boarding House as Boarding Captain. Reflecting on her life at St Catherine’s, Charlotte The School achieved a record 15 teams progressing to the Finals and five Premierships won across a range of competitive sports.
Living on campus allowed Charlotte to explore the depth of St Catherine’s co-curricular program.
the city is just a different kind of space from which I could explore,” shares Charlotte. Commencing boarding in Year 8, Charlotte felt a sense of uncertainty when first considering boarding away from her family, “It would have been very easy to follow in the footsteps of my two older siblings as they navigated their way through my old high school. This made the prospect of being a ‘new’ student very daunting, not to
“Having enjoyed space growing up on a farm; I came to realise the city is just a different kind of space to explore.” shares Charlotte.
believes one of the greatest benefits of boarding was the unexpected and diverse opportunities living on campus provided.
SHE WHO DARES ACHIEVES
SHE WHO DARES COMPETES
Along with the independence provided through its boarding program, St Catherine’s has also adapted its educational model to hand greater responsibility to students for their learning, which has seen the School continually rank as one of the top performing girls' schools in Australia.
The School’s outstanding academic reputation is complemented by an impressive record of accomplishments in sport. In 2023, the School achieved its most successful year in its 22-year history of Girls Sport Victoria Weekly Sport. The School achieved a record 15 teams progressing to the finals and five premierships won across a range of competitive sports.
In 2023, the School’s Year 12 Cohort achieved outstanding academic results across a broad range of subjects. The Median ATAR for the School was an exemplary 93.40; the highest Median ATAR on the School’s records. The Median Study Score of 36 was also impressive, noting 29% of all Study Scores were above 40, placing the School, once again, among the best in the State. Twelve students also received an ATAR above 99, placing them in the top 1% of the state.
“Being so close to school means you can get involved in the co-curricular programs that may require outside school hours commitments. I participated in sport every term, so boarding made my life easier, not having to compete with early morning traffic, instead only on the hockey pitch! It also encouraged me to explore niche areas of interest including music, performing arts, debating, and public speaking, and the wide range of student-led clubs that are available.”
These outstanding VCE results are a testament to the dedication, passion, and expertise of the School’s teaching staff, particularly its VCE teachers. Through the implementation of the School’s Strategic Plan, Towards 2025, St Catherine’s has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to cultivating the ‘thinking classroom.’
After five years of boarding, Charlotte offers the following advice to any regional students considering boarding, “If you have a slight inkling of curiosity towards boarding, then don’t be afraid to explore it. Boarding is unique. I wrote countless pros and cons lists to help me decide, and the pros outweighed the cons. I was in no doubt daunted by the idea at first, but I knew I needed to push myself, and I’m glad that I did.”
The School has established several new academic and wellbeing programs in recognition of the importance of student wellbeing for academic success. One such Program is the School’s innovative Senior Years Learning Model for Years 10 to 12, which empowers students in their learning through a hybrid learning model involving face-to-face classes as well as the online delivery of Masterclass lectures and tutorials.
The School also once again achieved state and national podium success in both Rowing and Snowsports, with the School’s Senior Coxed Eight the third-best rowing crew in Australia, and both the junior and senior Snowsports Teams placing second in the Victorian Championships. In 2023, the School also had more than 20 students compete in State or National level competitions in a range of sports from Sailing, Netball, AFL, and Swimming, to Hockey, Snowsports, Rowing, Equestrian and Athletics. The School’s recently refurbished Sports Centre, complete with a Strength and Conditioning Studio, along with its Athlete Development Academy further strengthens St Catherine’s long-standing reputation for sporting excellence. The school’s diversity of choice within its academic and co-curricular programs are also reflected in its broad range of scholarship opportunities for rural and regional students. Applications for 2025 Scholarships close on 29 January 2024. To learn more please contact admissions@stcatherines.net.au, visit www.stcatherines.net.au/ admissions/scholarships/ or call (03) 9828 3917.
103854
www.countrynews.com.au
Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024 25
26 Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024
www.countrynews.com.au
SCHOLARSHIPS BURSARIES & BOARDING OPPORTUNITIES ,
GOTAFE to upskill farming’s next generation In 2023, GOTAFE received $1.99 million as part of the Victorian Government’s Agriculture TAFE and Training Funding. The funding will support education aimed at ensuring students have the skills required for a career in agriculture – addressing the need for additional workers in the Goulburn-Ovens region. The Victorian Skills Plan 2022-2023 identified that the agriculture, forestry and fishing industry would need an additional 3000 workers over the next three years, with the regional workforce forecast to grow by an additional 564 employees by 2025. Key existing GOTAFE agriculture and horticulture courses will be supported by the funding, while a minimum of 10 new short courses will be created, including in Indigenous practices and land management and farm safety. GOTAFE board member Jenny Wilson said the funding would add significant value to both students and industry. “This funding will help upskill existing workers in the agriculture and horticulture industries, while also helping to attract diverse cohorts to undertake new and enhanced training,” she said. “We’re looking forward to working with education institutes and industry to deliver training to ensure the future workforce is equipped with the required experience and skills.” GOTAFE co-ordinator land (agriculture and food processing) Rob Hall said the funding would not only support industry but would also provide a range of benefits to staff and students. “Getting this funding is an incredible boost in morale for our staff – it improves their confidence and ability while also providing them opportunities for additional training and upskilling,” Mr Hall said. “The funding will create synergies between traditional land and farm management, so the courses have cultural relevance. “There’s a skill shortage within industry, and we’ve struggled with this, which is why I think a multi-layered approach including secondary school connections and community-based elements is so important.” Farm safety will also be a key focus of the funding. This is aimed at reducing the rate of workplace deaths in the agriculture industry, with about 14 per cent of annual fatalities attributed to agriculture workers despite it only making up about two per cent of Victoria’s workforce. “On-farm safety is an ongoing focus of GOTAFE’s education delivery,” Ms Wilson said. “It’s a tragic reality that farmers are over-represented in workplace deaths – that’s why it’s so important that farmers are given adequate training and support.
“A new worker induction program and a short course safety refresher for current workers will improve on-farm safety, while providing opportunities for both new and existing workers.”
NEW SHORT COURSES TEACH PRACTICAL SKILLS GOTAFE has recently begun taking applications for the first three new courses, created using the funding received earlier in 2023. These new courses seek to improve and build basic skills necessary to support a successful career in agriculture and horticulture. The three courses are: • Introduction to Farm Fencing (SCFFENCE24) • Introduction to Biosecurity Principles (SCBIOSEC24) • Introduction to Greenhouse Management (SCGREENH24) Introduction to Farm Fencing (SCFFENCE24) has been designed to provide students with an understanding of farm fencing techniques, materials and best practice. This course runs over two days and will equip learners with the knowledge required to plan, install and maintain effective farm fencing, which is an important part of securing land, protecting livestock and enhancing overall property functionality. In addition to Introduction to Farm Fencing (SCFFENCE24), GOTAFE will also be delivering a one-day short course Introduction to Biosecurity Principles (SCBIOSEC24) and a three-day Introduction to Greenhouse Management (SCGREENH24). Introduction to Biosecurity Principles (SCBIOSEC24) provides opportunities for students to deepen their understanding and implementation of biosecurity practices, ensuring the resilience and health of their enterprise in the face of biological threats. The course also includes an industry-specific focus on biosecurity measures and strategies, as well as guidance and feedback from experienced trainers to develop a tailored biosecurity plan for their enterprise. The three-day short course on greenhouse management is delivered at the William Orr campus in Shepparton, in GOTAFE’s greenhouse. The first-class facilities will provide learners with valuable knowledge and skills in efficiently and effectively operating a greenhouse. This short course typically covers essential topics such as: • Plant care • Environmental control • Pest management • Greenhouse safety
This short course is suitable for a diverse audience, including: • People interested in horticulture and greenhouse production. • Commercial growers interested in improving their greenhouse operations. • Small-scale farmers looking to diversify their greenhouse crop offerings. • Hobbyists and home gardeners seeking to optimise their greenhouse space. • Horticulture students or professionals wanting to expand their knowledge. • Restaurant owners growing culinary herbs on a small scale at their place of business. • Neighbourhood house volunteers providing fresh vegetables to local communities. • Community garden participants wanting to expand their growing seasons.
LOVE THE LAND? MAKE THE MOST OF FREE TAFE Being able to grow and develop in an industry he had been working in for several years attracted Chris Lindsay to GOTAFE. This combined with Free TAFE* and the flexible learning environment at GOTAFE helped Chris make the decision to enrol in the Certificate IV in Agriculture (AHC40116) course. “I was working full-time managing a large property while I was studying, which meant that time management could make it quite hard to complete assessments in a timely manner, particularly during the busy seasonal times,” Chris said. “I was able to complete my course through the online and web portals that GOTAFE offered while I was studying, which was a big help. “The course I was studying had great flexibility, and having an instructor with sound knowledge and experience in the industry was a huge bonus.” A major factor for Chris making the decision to study with GOTAFE was the opportunity to stay up to date with the changes and newly developed practices within the industry. “I was able to update my computer skills, which was a big focus for me, but an added bonus was developing how to communicate using online video.” Do you love the land? Or have a green thumb? GOTAFE’s agriculture and horticulture courses are your path to success. Cultivate your passion for agricultural practices, learn skills in new farming technology and safety, all while gaining practical experience in a real production environment at our campus farm. Your journey to a rewarding career begins here. With GOTAFE by your side, you’ve got this. Secure your spot today: www.gotafe.vic.edu.au/future-of-agriculture *Eligibility criteria applies. This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth government funding.
Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024 27
www.countrynews.com.au
LOVE THE LAND? HAVE A GREEN THUMB?
YOU’VE GOT THIS
GOTAFE’s brand new non-accredited Agriculture and Horticulture short courses are your path to success. • • •
Introduction to Farm Fencing (SCFFENCE24) Introduction to Biosecurity Principles (SCBIOSEC24) Introduction to Greenhouse Management (SCGREENH24)
Cultivate your passion for regenerative practices, learn skills in new farming technology and safety, all while gaining practical experience in a real production environment at our campus farm. With GOTAFE by your side, YOU’VE GOT THIS. SCAN THE QR CODE TO VIEW OUR COURSES & APPLY TODAY! @gotafe
108448
gotafe.vic.edu.au | 1300 GOTAFE (468 233)
28 Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024
www.countrynews.com.au
SCHOLARSHIPS BURSARIES & BOARDING OPPORTUNITIES ,
A Rich History of Education, Community, and Innovation Located one hour north of Melbourne on 40 hectares in Kilmore, Assumption College is where students and their families value the beautiful and spacious facilities, as well as the warm and kind relationships their children form with each other and the staff. The Assumption College community was founded in 1893 to provide Catholic families living in remote and regional areas with a high-quality schooling and boarding experience for their children. Over the years, this has remained the college’s commitment, and today, the boarding houses serve the families of the Kilmore region and beyond, with students following their parents and grandparents into the boarding houses.
74384
Boarding community students thrive in their comfortable ‘family style’ centres. There is a palpable sense of young people flourishing in surroundings that challenge and excite them.
Assumption College boarding staff live on site with the students and provide a ‘family spirit’ so both students and their parents feel welcomed and valued. Over time, the school shifted to co-education and expanded operations as a day school for local families. The college now boasts an enrolment of 1500 students on expansive grounds, with stateof-the-art facilities that complement the innovative curriculum offering. A purpose-built Agricultural & Animal Studies Facility was opened in 2023, and 2024 will see the construction of an innovative, community-facing STEM & Allied Health Facility. Assumption College students are connected through multi-age home groups, known as learning mentor groups, often grouped alongside their siblings, where a strong bond can be formed between the learning mentor, children and their parents.
The innovative MyMAP curriculum focuses on ‘stage not age’ learning, offering a vast range of offerings. As students enter their senior school years, they can personalise their journey with the VCE, Vocational Education and Training or schoolbased apprenticeships and traineeships. Students can complete accelerated VCE studies within the MyMAP years and enter accelerated university subjects during VCE that contribute to their ATAR. Students work together to achieve their best and share their pride in these collective efforts. This collaboration is transferable, where working with their peers becomes one of the foundation elements that they need to enhance their skill development, knowledge and understanding. Subjects such as High-Performance Sport, with partners such as Liverpool Football Club,
Essendon Football Club, Netball Victoria and Cricket Victoria, are further ways boarding and day students find connection, along with an extensive co-curricular program and activities. With new principal Paul Finneran starting in term one, the college will begin a fresh chapter in its rich history.
Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024 29
www.countrynews.com.au
SCHOLARSHIPS BURSARIES & BOARDING OPPORTUNITIES ,
Xavier College is very much on the move A vital facet of a Xavier College education is our focus on ensuring that boys are connecting with a welcoming and caring community.
Xavier College is proud of its rich heritage in scholarships. Accessibility to a Jesuit education is important to us here at Xavier College. We celebrate the diversity of interests and abilities in all our students, and we understand that every child is different. Within their unique being lies their capacity to be discovered and challenged. Our scholarships range from academic scholarships to music scholarships, as well as boarding scholarships and bursary opportunities (means-based). We welcome you to visit our website for details on new scholarships for 2025. Xavier boarders appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play with their best mates. As 2023 Boarding Captain Mitch Loughnan proudly explained at a whole school assembly earlier this year, “boarders come from all parts of Australia and the world. From Inverloch all the way to Hong Kong and
everywhere in between. [The Boarding House] is more than just a place to eat and sleep. At the heart of the walls are relationships. So many of them, if not all of them, are bonds and experiences made for a lifetime. We are a bunch of best mates who get to live with each other and learn the ins and outs of each person.” Xavier College is entering into an exciting period of growth.
Our key entry point of Year 7 is now accommodated in an exceptional, new state-of-the-art Year 7-8 learning precinct on the Senior Campus, opened at the beginning of the 2024 school year. Preceding this will be a seven-year journey through an amazing, brand-new P-6 Junior School. Xavier prides itself on delivering a unique Jesuit education, and 2028 will mark 150 years of developing exceptional graduates through inspiring learning experiences. Buoyed by strong recent VCE results and APS sporting success, the College now looks ahead with excitement and anticipation.
Boarding at Xavier The importance of student wellbeing is more evident today than ever before. For boarding students in particular, the need to connect with a welcoming community is paramount and that’s exactly what our College provides.
Discover e X traordinary
Learn more at xavier.vic.edu.au 106095
Our amazing new Kostka Precinct is now open. Limited Places available, enrol Now for 2025
New Scholarship opportunities now available for 2025
30 Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024
www.countrynews.com.au
SCHOLARSHIPS BURSARIES & BOARDING OPPORTUNITIES ,
e Students Xavier Colleg .au xavier.vic.edu
Moama Anglican Gr ammar moamagrammar.nsw. edu.au
School Grammar e rn u o lb Me du.au mgs.vic.e
Bendigo TAFE bendigotafe.edu.au
St Patrick’s College stpats.vic.edu.au
Melbourne Girls Gramma r School mggs.vic.edu.au
Assumption College assumption.vic.edu.au
GOTAFE gotafe.vic.edu.au
2025
Scholarships Melbourne Grammar School is an exceptional learning community.
Geelong Grammar Scho ol ggs.vic.edu.au
109336
St Catherine’s School stcatherines.net.au
Applications for Academic, Music and Boarding Scholarships are now open for boys entering Years 7 and 9 in 2025. A range of Access Scholarships are also available to those families who can demonstrate financial need. Applications close 28 January 2024. To apply, visit mgs.vic.edu.au To find out more, contact: Head of Admissions +61 3 9865 7570 enrol@mgs.vic.edu.au
355 St Kilda Road Melbourne +61 3 9865 7555 mgs@mgs.vic.edu.au
Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024 31
www.countrynews.com.au
SCHOLARSHIPS BURSARIES & BOARDING OPPORTUNITIES ,
Scholarships available at Bendigo TAFE Are you ready to start something new? Do something you love? With Bendigo TAFE you can! There are many courses to choose from in a variety of industries and support is available if you are facing financial hardship. The Education Support Scholarship can provide local students with a waiver or a reduction of their course fees. ‘If you are struggling to pay your course fees and you are unsure what to do, you may be eligible to receive assistance from the Education Support Scholarship’, says Brian Wiseman, Student Counsellor. ‘The support we are able to provide can be the difference between continuing on with this journey, or not’, adds Brian. If paying fees upfront is not possible, a payment plan is available. Students can also apply for the Access Scholarship, which helps to lower their repayment amounts.
A TAFE for Echuca Bendigo TAFE’s Echuca Campus offers a modern and boutique facility on the corner of Hare Street and Darling Streets. The campus aims to be a hub of community-based industry partnerships and a provider of skilled workforce for the local community, bringing together students from diverse backgrounds. ‘I really like the small class sizes; it makes you feel comfortable and supported through the lessons’, says Lindzee, a student at the Echuca campus. Matt Rolfe, an educator, says, ‘Students might be older people who haven’t been at school in a long time or early school leavers who need help with their literacy and numeracy skills. I love seeing them slowly developing more confidence and making friends.’ Educators like Matt work with local services, including Reconnect and the Skills and Jobs Centre, to support students in finding meaningful work they love.
Did you know that at Bendigo TAFE, students do not need an ATAR score to start a course? With a wide range of courses, including Free TAFE* courses and nationally recognised qualifications in automotive and trades, business and IT, food and fibre, health and community services, culinary and hospitality, Indigenous and foundation courses, we have options for you! The Victorian Government’s Free TAFE* initiative can save thousands of dollars for eligible students. While Free TAFE* covers the tuition fees, there may be additional expenses, such as materials or consumables fees. ‘Because of Free TAFE I was able to study, keep up with home commitments and get employed. It wouldn’t have been a possibility if not for this grant,’ says Kathryn Stanford, a nursing graduate.
The Education Support and Access Scholarships are open to students enrolled in any course. Applications are open throughout the year, and applicants must meet the eligibility criteria and provide supporting documents.
Winner of the 2022 Victorian & Australian Large Training Provider of the Year award
To learn more about the scholarships and eligibility criteria, interested students can visit the Bendigo TAFE website or contact a Welfare Officer for support and assistance at 13 8233.
13 TAFE (13 8233) | bendigotafe.edu.au Explore over 100 courses today.
RTO 3077 | Some or all of this training is provided with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding. *Free TAFE on selected courses only. Eligibility criteria apply. Other fees and charges may apply. Find out more freetafe.vic.gov.au
• • • • • • •
RTO No. 3077 | CRICOS Provider No. 01218G Some or all of this training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding.
Unleash You at Bendigo TAFE
32 Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024
www.countrynews.com.au
SCHOLARSHIPS BURSARIES & BOARDING OPPORTUNITIES ,
Georgie Cameron Boarding at Melbourne Girls Grammar School Hailing from Swan Hill in north-west Victoria, Georgie Cameron began her boarding journey at Melbourne Girls Grammar in Year 10, when her sister was in Year 12 and the boarding house co-captain. Now, it’s Georgie’s turn and she’s thrilled to be commencing her final year of schooling, following in her sister’s footsteps as one of MGGS’s boarding house captains.
“Being named as one of the 2024 boarding house co-captains is such an honour and I could not be more grateful to be a part of leadership in the house!” Georgie says. “I get along really well with the head of boarding, Amanda Haggie, and assistant director of boarding Kerry Bacon, which makes the role much easier, as they both foster such a positive and supportive environment.” This leadership position feels like a privilege for Georgie and she’s looking forward to working with other student leaders as a member of the MGGS Student Executive Council. “Being a part of the SEC is more than just a shiny badge and golden embroidery,” she says. “It allows us to provide a voice for our peers and lead our school as we try our best to provide a positive and inspiring culture.”
staff are really helpful when it comes to preparation.”
Georgie says homesickness hasn’t been an issue for her and she’s content with her boarding family. “I feed off other people’s energy, and I love company,” she says, adding that her parents “are just a phone call away”. Georgie really enjoys meeting new boarders and helping them transition in the boarding house. “We all come from somewhere different, but we have so much in common, which makes having conversations with people you have never met before really easy,” she says. At the start of each year, boarders are assigned a new student and become their buddy, helping them transition smoothly into the house.
shopping with her friends on Chapel St. She knows that Year 12 will bring more work and study but she’s feeling confident about that challenge. “I find that when I apply myself, and with the support of teachers, residential staff, academic coaches, classmates and friends, I know I am able to achieve amazing results!” she says.
The Melbourne Girls Grammar boarding house is an environment where boarders feel comfortable trying new things and challenging themselves in a supportive community. They are bold, dynamic and ready to take on anything. Boarding scholarships and bursaries are available for entry in 2025; apply now at mggs.vic.edu.au/scholarships
There are many activities Georgie enjoys in her downtime, including walking around the botanic gardens, catching an AFL game at the MCG or
The MGGS student grew up playing netball and basketball and represents the school in both. She trains multiple times a week on top of gym sessions in the Artemis Fitness Hub. This is in addition to her study, which she admits has improved immensely since beginning boarding at MGGS. “Up to Year 10 in the boarding house you do ‘prep’, which is two hours of compulsory study after school. In Years 11 and 12, we don’t have to do prep, but we all work in our rooms anyway from 6.30pm to 8pm,” Georgie says. “As boarders, we’re strongly encouraged to be studying after school, especially around exam time, and the
BOARDING IN THE HEART OF MELBOURNE MGGS offers a warm and inclusive environment where your daughter can achieve her best in and out of the classroom. APPLY NOW FOR 2025 BOARDING SCHOLARSHIPS
105532
mggs.vic.edu.au/scholarships
Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024 33
www.countrynews.com.au
Spending a year at Geelong Grammar School Campus Nestled in the foothills of Victoria’s high country, the campus offers a unique boarding experience for Year 9 students that fosters personal growth, academic excellence, and a deep connection with nature. “My year at Timbertop was so different to anything I would have done in Year 9, either at my old school or, really, any other school in Australia,’’ Henrietta said. “The running and hiking, the isolation and life without technology, the navigating, the bush cooking, the teamwork - everything really. “There’s nothing about Timbertop that comes close to other schools.’’ Following a year at Timbertop, a scholarship enabled Henrietta to continue her education with Geelong Grammar School at its Corio campus.
“It took a while to settle into boarding life, but now I absolutely love boarding – it’s by far my favourite aspect of life at GGS,’’ Henrietta said. ‘’Your boarding house becomes your family; it’s an exciting and supportive environment to spend your senior school years in. ‘’I’ve made a bunch of great friends from all over Victoria and interstate; I even have quite a few international friends. “Being at GGS has also given me broader options for my academic subjects, sporting pursuits and extra-curricular activities. ‘’And although GGS isn’t unique in offering these options, the school makes it easy to get involved in these sorts of things, helping me grow as a person in and outside of the classroom.’’ Applications are being accepted for a range of scholarships at Geelong Grammar School across Years 5 to 11, including boarding scholarships for regional and rural students. For information, visit www.ggs.vic.edu.au/scholarships
Imagine the Possibilities Moama Anglican Grammar is delighted to offer a range of scholarships for current and new students for Years 5-11 in 2025. Students who demonstrate alignment to our core values of Compassion, Respect, and Integrity, and are committed to the pursuit of excellence whilst
97494
At 14, Henrietta Bradley left her home in regional Victoria to spend a year at Geelong Grammar School’s Timbertop campus.
Academic Excellence Education Support General Excellence Music/Performing Arts
actively contributing to the school are encouraged to apply. Registrations for Academic Excellence Scholarships close on 19 April 2024 and other categories close on 3 May 2024. Contact us for a school tour today 2 Kirchhofer Street Moama, NSW 2731 03 5480 5900 | moamagrammar.nsw.edu.au
Find out more here moamagrammar.nsw.edu.au/enrolments/scholarships or contact our School Registrar on 03 5480 5900 or registrar@moamagrammar.nsw.edu.au.
34 Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024
www.countrynews.com.au
SCHOLARSHIPS BURSARIES & BOARDING OPPORTUNITIES ,
New era for performing arts at St Patrick’s College St Patrick’s College is excited to announce new scholarships to celebrate the opening of its state-ofthe-art performing arts centre. The college is offering scholarships for music, together with speech and drama. Acting deputy principal Carol Roberts said the new performing arts centre would provide students with the opportunity to learn and work in an industry-level performance venue. The new centre is expected to be ready for use at the start of 2024. The college invites scholarship applications from new and existing students. Scholarships will be awarded to students who, in the opinion of the principal and respective heads of music and drama, will make enthusiastic and valuable contributions to the performing arts life of the college. To apply for a scholarship, students should complete an application form and submit one audition video of between four to eight minutes addressing the following criteria: • Music scholarship: please complete the application form on our website and submit one audition video demonstrating two contrasting musical works. The audition video should be between four to eight minutes in total. • Speech and drama scholarship: please complete the application form on our website and submit one audition video demonstrating one monologue and one work from a musical. The audition video should be between four to eight minutes in total.
Audition videos should be uploaded to YouTube, with the link emailed to scholarships@stpats.vic.edu.au Please see these instructions on how to upload your audition video to YouTube. The new $20 million performing arts centre is a state-of-the-art facility and will be one of Ballarat’s largest indoor auditoriums with a seating capacity of 835.
A striking feature of the centre is the external wall that, through engineering excellence, resembles a curtain hanging off the building.
performing arts centre specifically designed for students to hone their talents, collaborate with peers and stage public performances,” Ms Allen said.
Exterior landscaping by Papworth Design carefully stitches the existing pathway and garden systems to the new to create beautiful plaza and parkland settings.
“Students will have the ability to learn about theatre lighting and sound on a scale that was previously impossible, the number and standard of performance opportunities we can offer will hugely increase and our ability to teach the breadth of our subjects will widen.
“It is really important, in my view, that all boys during their schooling have the opportunity to discover and pursue interests and talents in the arts,” Mr O’Connor said. “I am incredibly excited about this new resource at SPC. It will provide our current students and many generations of students to come with a wonderful set of opportunities around the performing arts.” College head of drama Monique Allen said the facility would transform teaching in this area and present new learning opportunities for students. “We are so excited that we will have a dedicated
“Our passionate performing arts students will now have a purpose-built home within the school to build on their sense of belonging. We can’t wait.” St Patrick’s College scholarship testing for 2025 Years 7, 10 and 11 students will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024. All students must sit a test to be considered for a scholarship. Registration closes on Friday, February 9, 2024. For further information, visit www.stpats.vic.edu.au/ prospective-families/scholarships/
Designed by award-winning John Wardle Architects and built by Ballarat’s own Nicholson Construction, the centre will be ready for use in 2024. Principal Steven O’Connor said the centre would ensure the college offered a balanced educational offering to its young men for many years. “I am very proud of the many wonderful resources and programs already in place at St Pat’s,’’ he said. “We enjoy a tremendous history and reputation, for example, for the strength of our sporting programs and the success we achieve through these. “We are, however, committed to providing a holistic or well-rounded education to all of our students and the performing arts centre will provide us with an incredible resource in the important area of the creative and performing arts to do so.” The centre’s main seating is retractable, allowing the space to be used for other purposes, such as examinations, exhibitions, dinners and indoor physical activities. The centre also includes a Black Box Theatre for drama, a percussion rehearsal room, a band room, a large ensemble room, several individual instrumental tuition teaching spaces and staff areas.
St Patrick’s College 2025 Scholarship Testing
104433
Open to Years 7, 10 and 11 students. Saturday 17 February 2024. All applicants must sit the test to be considered for a scholarship. Registration closes Friday 9th February, 2024. To register visit: www.stpats.vic.edu.au/prospective-families/scholarships
Country News, week of Tuesday, January 16, 2024 35
www.countrynews.com.au
SCHOLARSHIPS BURSARIES & BOARDING OPPORTUNITIES ,
Explore free TAFE pathways at GOTAFE GOTAFE welcomes the recent announcement of additional free TAFE* places in Victoria by the state and federal governments.
After progressing through his Certificate III in Information Technology (ICT30120) Alistair is excited about what his future holds.
The education provider will be offering more than 40 free TAFE courses, including the Certificate III in Hospitality (SIT30622) and Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (SIT30821), which are now eligible courses.
“I am excited by the growth and of the industry,” he said.
Additionally, both new and continuing students who identify on their enrolment form as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander can now access free tuition.
Free TAFE* information sessions
Free TAFE is here to help you stress less while you study and overcome financial barriers that might be stopping you from pursuing the course of your dreams. Free TAFE courses support career pathways in important areas like preventing family violence, supporting aged care, disability and nursing, cyber security, or supporting the hospitality industry.
“I want to continue my studies and complete a Certificate IV in Cyber Security (22603VIC).”
GOTAFE is holding a series of free information sessions, including a free TAFE* session on January 10. The session will explain what free TAFE is really all about and the eligibility rules to access funding. You will also learn about the recent game-changing free TAFE* pathways and how it can propel you into a career in high-demand industry sectors.
Wanting a career change is what attracted Certificate III in Information Technology (ICT30120) student Alistair Wall to GOTAFE.
We will cover what to expect in your journey of becoming a GOTAFE student and how our skills and jobs career advisors can help you with your career planning and achieving your goals.
Alistair had previously worked in customer service, but after 9.5 years he decided it was time for a change.
There are also a number of other industry-specific course information sessions.
With free TAFE and the flexible learning environment at GOTAFE, Alistair said he was able to “put a lot of extra time and commitment into course work without financial stress”.
For more details or to register, visit www.gotafe.vic.edu.au/whats-on/events
“I was able to take on part-time work and focus more on completing my course. “I love meeting people at TAFE. “My trainer is very encouraging and supports us along our career pathways.”
Want to turn your passion for technology into a career? Explore our 2024 course offerings here: https://www.gotafe.vic.edu.au/youve-got-this * Eligibility criteria applies. This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth governments funding. Please note free TAFE refers to the tuition fees, and other costs may apply.
READY TO SHAPE YOUR FUTURE?
YOU’VE GOT THIS Be compassionate through nursing? Build communities through community services? Care for animals through veterinary science? With GOTAFE by your side, YOU’VE GOT THIS.
From agriculture, hospitality, health and wellbeing, trades, education, hair and beauty plus many more… learn real skills, for real jobs and careers. Right now.
Scan the QR code to view our courses and Apply today! @gotafe
108451
gotafe.vic.edu.au | 1300 GOTAFE (468 233)