Applications are now open for the second round of the Certificate III Upskill Support Program (CUSP) and must be submitted by Monday 15 April 2024.
First launched in December 2023, the program offers financial support of up to $7,000 (before tax) for educators who currently hold a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and want to upskill to a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in 2024.
Students can use the money to contribute to cost-of-living expenses while studying and working, particularly while on placement.
The program is one of a range of financial support options available to help people to study and work in early childhood. It’s all about supporting educators to build their skills so they are in the best position to take on leadership roles and other professional opportunities.
Building our workforce
There has already been high demand for the program from educators across Victoria, including Tayla Catlin, who has worked in early childhood education for 6 years since completing her Certificate III.
Based in Morwell, in Gippsland’s Latrobe Valley, Tayla works in a small service assisting vulnerable and at-risk families.
She said the program would allow her to build on her training in supporting children with additional needs and those impacted by trauma.
‘The scholarship will enable me to have further support to have study time, and to complete placement while working as a room leader,’ Tayla said.
Easing the burden
After moving from the United Kingdom following the COVID-19 pandemic, educator Lily Joslin said the scholarship is a much-needed support.
‘This scholarship will enable me to fully commit to a career making meaningful changes in children's lives,’ Lily said.
How to apply
All eligible educators are encouraged to apply, but please note that places are limited – so make sure to get your application in on time.
You can apply for the program through the Client Portal.
Applications close Monday 15 April 2024.
Eligibility requirements
Before submitting your application, please read the CUSP Program Guidelines to check your eligibility.
Find out more
For more information, refer to Financial support to study and work in early childhood.
For further enquiries, contact Busy At Work (who administer the program on behalf of the department):
- phone: 1300 161 396
- email: ec.financial.support@education.vic.gov.au
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