Scholars’ support
Help for ‘at risk’ teens
DISADVANTAGED Geelong region teenagers are being given the opportunity to excel through the expansion of a Melbourne-based scholarship program.
Skyline Education Foundation, founded in Melbourne 10 years ago, supported 10 students at two Geelong schools this year.
The program, which gives young people greater opportunity to access university, will be expanded to Surf Coast Secondary College next year.
Skyline’s Professor Barbara van Ernst said the move to expand the program to the Geelong region began two years ago when directors identified a need in the area.
Ten scholarships were awarded to academically talented students from Newcomb Secondary College and Northern Bay College.
Eligible students experi- enced some kind of financial hardship and were often recognised as being at risk of dropping out of school despite their potential.
“If we can help good students stay in school, who would otherwise be at risk of dropping out, that would be a positive contribution to the whole of Geelong,” Prof van Ernst said.
Chairwoman Katrina Reynen said more than 100 participants in the program had completed their VCE and gone on to university.
Applicants for the 2018 intake will learn in coming weeks if they are successful. Successful applicants will have their school books paid for, be able to purchase new uniforms if necessary and be able to attend a number of Skyline programs aimed at engaging students and ensuring they reach their potential.
The program hopes to increase its intake to 30 Geelong students in 2019.