Lift for young learners
MORE than $180,000 is being invested in the Gold Coast’s future leaders with 22 scholarships awarded by TAFE Queensland Gold Coast.
Six indigenous students are among the 2015 scholarship recipients, along with 16 school leavers.
One recipient, Anna Canton, wants to become a nurse after spending time in hospitals when her brother was diagnosed with cancer.
“My brother Ashley was diagnosed with cancer a couple of years ago so I was in the hospital for a period of time and got to see the incredible work that nurses do,” the 18year-old said.
“The nurses truly inspired me with the stories they told and I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives like they did for my family.”
The 2014 Trinity Lutheran College graduate was awarded the scholarship after she demonstrated dedication and passion for the industry while completing a certificate III in health services assistance through the TAFE Queensland Gold Coast school-based program.
Miss Canton said she would use the scholarship to continue on to a diploma of nursing.
“TAFE Queensland Gold Coast has provided me with a great pathway into my chosen career and after I complete the diploma, it will provide an easy transition into university with direct entry into a bachelor of nursing,” she said.
TAFE Queensland Gold Coast general manager Jenny Dodd said the scholarship program provided recipients with a start in their chosen career field, with many going on to further study or employment.
Indigenous scholarship winner for 2014 Jason HarrisOrgan has completed two certificate IIIs in horticulture and landscaping since receiving his scholarship and has also found work.
“Receiving the scholarship has provided me with not only the lifelong gift of education but also enabled me to buy tools and resources to start working in the trade,” he said.
Ms Dodd said indigenous scholarship recipients were chosen for their educational goals and aspirations, background in community participation and their role model suitability.