Education Support Fund
Stratford Coal provides funding towards the Stratford Coal Education Support Fund which offers financial assistance for students undertaking tertiary education, TAFE courses and apprenticeships, with grants allocated annually.
It can be challenging for businesses in regional NSW to find skilled workers, as many young people leave their local communities after school to pursue careers in the city.
Stratford Coal took upon this challenge, setting up the Stratford Coal Education Support Fund in 1997.
Working with MidCoast Council, the local business chamber, high school and the community, the Fund was established and run by an independent committee.
Over its life, the Fund has expanded and now provides support for University, TAFE and community based apprenticeships.
Over the past 27 years, over $850,000 has been contributed to support local students and businesses, making a genuine difference in the lives of over 200 tertiary students, 135 apprentices/TAFE students and 55 businesses.
Local businesses have secured local skilled workers thanks to the Fund, creating jobs for local people and allowing people to study and work in their home community.
The Education Support Fund applications open in December each year
View the Documents below for further information
Applications are invited from interested persons and businesses for financial assistant grants in the following categories:
Tertiary Assistance Grants
For 2025 school leavers intending to enroll in University; up to $3000 per grant.
Tertiary Assistance Grants
For intending or currently enrolled university students who have not previously received a grant; up to $2000 per grant.
TAFE Course Benefits
Up to $1000 per benefit.
School Based Traineeships
Up to $500 per benefit.
Apprenticeship/ Traineeship Subsidies
To assist local businesses to employ an apprentice or trainee; up to $6000 over three years.
Document Downloads:
Education Support Fund – Tertiary Assistance Scholarship
Education Support Fund – Tertiary Assistance Scholarship – prior school leavers
Education Support Fund – TAFE/Traineeship Scholarship
Education Support Fund – Subsidies for Local Businesses
Application forms are also available at the MidCoast Council Gloucester Office and Gloucester High School when applications are open.
