Local university students have a rare opportunity to gain practical work skills as part of Central Coast Council’s 2019 scholarship program.

The annual program will provide four first or second-year university students with an outstanding opportunity to combine study with paid employment with one of the Coast’s largest organisations.

Council’s Executive Manager People and Culture, Kellie Reeves, said Council is looking for bright, talented and enthusiastic students who want to gain local workforce experience.

“This program is designed to encourage participation in undergraduate studies by offering scholarship opportunities exclusively to our local students who are looking for a step up into their career,” Ms Reeves said.

“Currently, only 14% of Central Coast residents have a bachelor or higher university degree. This is in comparison to Sydney where 28% of residents have achieved a similar qualification. We want to see this percentage increase by motivating students to continue their studies by giving them paid work experience in their chosen field.”

Scholarships are available in a range of undergraduate degrees, including business, social science, natural resources, environmental management, engineering, water/sewer operations, human resources, and information technology.

Successful applicants will receive $2,500 paid in two instalments - $1,250 is presented at a formal welcome ceremony at the commencement of the experience, with the remainder provided after successful completion of the scholarship program, which includes 140 hours of paid work placement.

During their work placement, scholarship students will be mentored by professionals working in their chosen career area and will build valuable professional contacts.

Council scholarship student, Bradley Barrett, said his scholarship experience with Council had opened his eyes to the many opportunities available to him as a future civil engineer.

“Before I spent two weeks at Council, I expected I would one day work with a construction company as a structural or geotechnical engineer,” Mr Barrett said.

“However, working in Council’s water and sewer area has expanded my horizons about where my career could go. Now I’m enthusiastic about possibly working in that area in the future.

“The most enjoyable aspect of my scholarship experience has been interacting with Council staff who have been very supportive in teaching me about their work.”

For more information or to apply, visit our careers page or call Council’s People and Culture Team on 4350 5257.

Applications close 14 November 2018.