Scholarship program aims to bridge Geelong’s education gap

A NEW pilot scholarship program aiming to tackle the socio-economic barriers to education faced by many students across the region has launched in Geelong.

The official launch of the Geelong Chances Pilot Program, run by Melbourne-based organisation Western Chances, was hosted on Monday by Corio’s Northern Bay P-12 College.

The event was also attended by Lara MP Ella George and Bellarine MP Alison Marchant, along with representatives from Geelong High School, North Geelong Secondary College, Newcomb Secondary College, Bellarine Secondary College and Grovedale College.

Over its three-year trial phrase, the Geelong Chances program aims to provide educational scholarships to 129 students from up to 10 government secondary schools, helping to ease the burden on high achieving students experiencing financial hardship, increase equitable access and participation in education, and bolster students’ confidence and self-belief.

Provided yearly, scholarships range from $650 to $1,000 and can be tailored to the specific needs of each student.

At present, 37 students across four local schools are receiving scholarships under the Geelong Chances program, with a further 25 students at two additional schools set to join them shortly.

Western Chances chief executive Zac Lewis said the scholarship program was a testament to the organisation’s commitment to breaking down financial barriers and creating opportunities for young people in Geelong to fulfil their potential.

“We believe in the power of education to transform lives and are thrilled to extend our support to the City of Greater Geelong,” he said.

“By working closely with local schools, we aim to identify and nurture academic talent, providing young people with the resources they need to succeed.”

Member for Lara Ella George celebrated the launch of the program.

“Western Chances do incredible work in the community to help students achieve their full potential, and I am so excited that they are expanding their program into Geelong with the launch of the Geelong Chances Pilot Program,” she said.

“Geelong Changes will transform the lives of young people with educational scholarships, mentoring and ongoing support for students to pursue their educational dreams.

“I’m proud that the Allan Labor government has committed $50,000 over two years to support Geelong Chances, so that more students can be part of this life-changing program.”

Northern Bay P-12 College student and Geelong Chances scholarship recipient Maria said the assistance offered through the program had helped to ease the financial burden on her family, allowing her to focus on her studies and pursue her passions.

A budding neurologist, Marie received her first scholarship under the program in July after being identified as a high achiever in maths, science and psychology.

She’s now on the verge of becoming the first person in her family to attend university.

“Western Chances has provided me with far more than financial assistance, it has laid a foundation of support that has allowed me to dream bigger than I thought even possible,” Maria said.

“Beyond the financial support, Western Chances has given me something more valuable: it has given me the belief that I belong in spaces that I thought inaccessible.

“Thank you for believing in me and investing in my future. Your support has been extremely meaningful, and it brings me just so much joy.”