Scholarships open up career opportunities for young Australians
The Commonwealth Scholarships Program for Young Australians offers up to $13,000 per year to study a vocational education and training (VET) qualification and complete a paid internship. The Department of Education, Skills and Employment is offering opportunity for young Australians (aged 15 to 24), located in 10 nominated regions, in its third application round, closing early March.
One recipient from the March 2020 intake, Dain Riley, was able to realise his dream of working in IT. He completed his internship with OnBoard I.T. in Townsville, getting practical experience while studying a Certificate III in Information, Digital Media and Technology.
“I really wanted to get into IT and it took some time to find a way into these studies. The technology field is mind-blowing but for me very exciting,” he said.
Tania Greenwood, OnBoard I.T. Manager, said Dain’s confidence and skills flourished during his internship.
“The most rewarding thing was watching him grow and take note of the different systems we use. It was really nice to have a smiling, willing-to-learn keenness around the office,” she said.
Kirra Fitzell, Regional Scholarship Coordinator at BUSYAtWork, says Dain has come far since beginning his placement with OnBoard I.T.
“Dain is from the Disability priority group. He lacked a little confidence and was very shy in the beginning. Dain just needed to feel comfortable and, once a rapport was built, he took to the situation amazingly,” Kirra said.
“It is wonderful to see that the government is helping to give these kids a head start in their futures.”
Dain said the scholarship has inspired him to continue to look for work in the IT sector.
“I have had very positive steps towards securing employment. A small business is now considering letting me do three weeks’ work experience with them with the hope it will lead to a position,” Dain said.
“All in all this whole scholarship has helped me move up the ladder in a career in IT.”
The third application round of the Commonwealth Scholarships Program for Young Australians is now open and will close on 12 March 2021 at 5 pm AEDT. You can find more information, including a list of nominated regions, here. For questions about the application process, contact BUSYAtWork on 13 BUSY (13 28 79) or scholarships@busyatwork.com.au no later than 11 March 2021.
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