Record number of scholarships for aspiring NSW ECEC professionals

A record number of New South Wales early childhood education and care (ECEC) scholarship recipients were announced on 11 December, with more than 1,000 aspiring professionals joining the ranks of the profession. 

More than 18,000 early childhood educators and teachers will be supported by the NSW Government over the next four years thanks to the NSW Government’s record investment in the ECEC workforce. 

“We want to build a stronger and brighter future for NSW families, and we know that building our early childhood workforce is a no-brainer,” said Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell.

“These scholarships will support recipients with financial costs that come with deepening their understanding of early childhood environments and gain additional skills and capabilities.”

Ms Mitchell congratulated all the 2022 scholarship recipients, commending them on their decision to choose ECEC as their professional pathway. 

The scholarships are part of the NSW Government’s ‘once in a generation’ reform of the early childhood sector, with more than $15.9 billion invested through the Early Years Commitment.

Scholarships awarded since 30 June 2022:

• 439 recipients, Early Childhood Education Scholarships, round one (up to $25,000)
• 494 recipients, Early Childhood Education Scholarships, round two (up to $25,000)
• 76 recipients, Early Childhood Inclusive Education Scholarships (up to $20,000).

Read more about the Early Years Commitment.