ECEC professionals invited to apply for Fraser Foundation scholarships

Applications for the first round of Early Childhood Education Scholarships Applications being offered by the Fraser Foundation are now open, with the Foundation seeking to provide financial assistance to aspiring educators seeking education support.

Successful applicants will be granted access to tertiary studies and research in the field of early childhood education, with financial assistance valued up to $50,000 per year, for up to four years of tertiary study.

To be eligible for a scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:

• Be an Australian citizen or Australian permanent resident
• Have enrolled or intend to enrol as a full-time or part time student in an approved Australian course of early childhood education
• A commitment to completing their chosen course/degree
• Have a passion for and commitment to education and early childhood
• Qualify based on at least one indicator of financial need or assistance (eg. Financial hardship or Vulnerable or ATSI or rural/remote location)
• Be 17 years of age or older

The nonprofit organisation was created by Little Scholars School of Early Learning Founder Jae Fraser in 2021, with the aim of redefining education pathways by offering grants and scholarships to aspiring early childhood educators.

Mr Fraser has pledged $2 million of his personal funds over the next five years to support students, including those who are ineligible for government support. 

While the Government “offers great support” to students living in regional and remote communities and some disadvantaged learners, he said, “there are many disadvantaged early education students that fall through the cracks.”

“Unfortunately, financial hardship, remote or rural location, medical conditions and disabilities are some of the barriers that prevent aspiring educators from chasing their dream of a career in early childhood education,” Mr Fraser explained.

The financial assistance will be allocated to eligible candidates who display a passion for early childhood education, not just those achieving outstanding academic results.

“Our scholarships are not just for high academic achievers,” he continued “they are awarded to people from all backgrounds and study areas and are designed to help all students achieve their full potential in the field of early childhood education.” 

Mr Fraser, who describes himself as having come “from humble beginnings”, said he “had to go the long way around” to fulfill his dream of becoming an early childhood teacher, working to support himself while studying part time. 

“For me, this isn’t about simply looking after my own business; it’s about leaving a legacy that benefits the early childhood education sector holistically,” he said. “I want to do my part to ensure that we have a strong, adequate and enthusiastic workforce of early educators across the entire country for years to come.” 

Many people in the sector and the government are expressing concerns about Australia-wide staff shortages. I wanted to act and create a solution, so I’m giving back by building the careers of those who are passionate about early childhood education,” he continued. 

It’s up to us to make sure that we have highly-motivated and well-educated teachers who can offer all Australian children a successful start in life.”

For further details and to apply for a scholarship, complete the application form online.