The Tasmanian Liberal Government is delivering on its commitment to boost professional support staff in schools.
Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, said the first of our school psychologist and speech pathologist scholarship recipients have now launched their careers.
"Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, we're providing $500,000 for ten speech pathology scholarships and ten school psychology graduate scholarships across the State," Minister Palmer said.
"Scholarship placements for 2025 have been offered, with a number of successful applicants already starting work in our schools.
"We recognise the increasing demand to address mental health and complex developmental issues in children and young people.
"These positions ensure more students get the wellbeing support they need so they can continue to learn and thrive.
"With a focus on regional areas in Tasmania, new scholarships offer permanent employment pathways for eligible university students in the early stages of their careers and will help bolster this vital workforce in Tasmanian government schools."
Speech Pathology scholarship recipient, Zoe Prentice, acknowledges the great opportunity these scholarships offer professionally and personally, with experience that makes a real difference to children and young people.
"The Speech Pathology team in the North-West have been exceptionally welcoming and supportive," Ms Prentice said.
"From day one, I've felt like a valued team member, receiving ongoing support and drawing from the knowledge of colleagues.
"I am incredibly fortunate to have this opportunity and be working in the beautiful state of Tasmania."
Successful applicants receive $25,000 across their scholarship term to contribute towards university course costs. They are required to complete a minimum of two years' employment with DECYP in a specified region.
Since 2014, the number of school psychology, social work and speech and language pathology positions has increased by over 60 percent.
