TAFE NSW and Ramsgate RSL have joined forces to offer a new scholarship to eligible Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants who wish to grow their careers in the booming Cultural Arts sector. [1]

Five scholarships valued at $1,000 each will be offered to applicants who wish to pursue the Certificate IIII or IV Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts or Certificate IV Photography and Digital Imaging at TAFE NSW Eora.

Ramsgate RSL Commercial Manager Nicole Heinrich said the new scholarship program presented an exciting opportunity for Indigenous students to get a head start in their studies.

“Ramsgate RSL Board and Management are proud to have teamed up with TAFE NSW Eora to offer an educational scholarship for the local community,” said Nicole.

 “We understand the importance of education and know this scholarship program will help aspiring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students get a head start in their careers with formal Cultural arts and photography training at TAFE NSW.”

Qualifications in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts equip students with the hands-on practical skills that they need to preserve and make meaning of the important history for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People through drawing, print making, painting, photography and sculpture, whilst focusing on the importance of understanding their own Cultural identity. 

TAFE NSW Creative and Design Ideation Head of Skills Team Richard Cass said it was incredibly important for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to have access to Cultural Arts training of this nature.

“This partnership will make it easier for aspiring Cultural artists to pursue formal study and support them to begin to tell their story through art, preserving history and helping them regain their sense of belonging.”

“Aboriginal Cultural Art is booming and there is a high level of interest both nationally and internationally for commissioned works and exhibition pieces in galleries. Students may also find that the hands-on practical skills and knowledge that they learn through the course could lead to work in galleries, museums and jobs as Cultural educators and tour guides,” Mr Cass said.

For information on how to apply for this scholarship and more, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.

Media contacts: Alice Dalley, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, alice.dalley1@tafensw.edu.au, mobile 0402 528 210.