Member for Ku-ring-gai, Alister Henskens SC MP, is encouraging apprentices in Ku-ring-gai who are facing financial hardship to apply for a Bert Evans Scholarship from the NSW Government before 30 May.

Mr Henskens also encourages local employers and training providers to nominate candidates for one of 50 scholarships offered each year by the NSW Government.

“Fifty scholarships worth $5000 a year for three years are awarded to women apprentices undertaking non-traditional trades, apprentices working in a skills shortage occupation and experiencing hardship, apprentices with a disability and Aboriginal apprentices,”  Mr Henskens said. 

Last year, local hairdresser, Diana Cumming Cornwell, received a Bert Evans Scholarship after being nominated by Fiducia Stylists at Turramurra.

“Many of my friends at school undertook an apprenticeship,” Mr Henskens said. “An apprenticeship is a great way to kick-start a career, and apprentices are vital to the state’s growth. However it’s not always easy to complete a trade qualification when experiencing financial hardship.

“We recognise that many apprentices are doing it tough, particularly those who have to live away from home or do not have their family around them to offer support,” Mr Henskens added.

“My message to training providers and employers is this – if you know of a deserving first year apprentice, encourage them to apply for a scholarship before the 30 May deadline.”

The scholarships are named after the late Bert Evans, who was a distinguished advocate of the VET sector for more than 30 years.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Skills, Small Business and Regional NSW, John Barilaro, said the Bert Evans Scholarships are awarded to apprentices who demonstrate a high aptitude for vocational education and training and a positive attitude in the workplace.

“Some apprentices are the sole supporters of their family and have difficulty buying tools for their trade. Others are travelling hundreds of kilometres to attend formal training.

“The Bert Evans Scholarship could make all the difference for an apprentice doing it tough and help to get them on the path to a fulfilling and sustainable career.”

For more Information and to apply, visit www.training.nsw.gov.au