Bridging the Gap Foundation has partnered with applied learning education provider SEDA Group (SEDA) to create a new scholarship program for young Indigenous Australians.

The scholarships will offer students in Years 10 to 12 in the Northern Territory and Years 11 and 12 in New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria access to a fully funded position in a SEDA program for interested families. Through the SEDA programs, recipients will have access to a pathways-focused senior secondary education which will be tailored to their own goals and aspirations.

Funding for the scholarships will be raised by Bridging the Gap Foundation’s soon-to-be-launched Workplace Giving program and online through its donor portal.

SEDA is a leading provider of hands-on education which delivers an applied learning model in conjunction with Independent Senior Secondary Schools. Meanwhile, Bridging the Gap Foundation was established by Charles Darwin University and Menzies School of Health Research to address one of Australia’s most important issues, the ten-year gap in life expectancy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

“I am thrilled we are launching this partnership as it will provide a great opportunity for Indigenous secondary students. It will unlock their potential by providing them with practical work experience, building their career and life skills and helping them transition into ongoing employment,” said Bridging the Gap Foundation Deputy Chair Dean Rioli, who was also appointed to SEDA Group’s National Indigenous Advisory Group.

Related: Additional funding to help foundation tackle financial problems for Indigenous people

In addition to completing their secondary education, Indigenous students who receive the scholarship will participate in SEDA’s National Indigenous Education and Leadership Program (NIELP). This program works closely with the sporting industry, education sector and Indigenous community partners to educate and empower Indigenous students.

“SEDA is committed to growing our Indigenous student numbers and expanding our reach into new communities. Partnering with like-minded organisations such as Bridging the Gap Foundation can make this a reality. Together we aim to engage, educate and empower the next generation of Indigenous youth,” said SEDA Group National Indigenous Manager Jethro Calma-Holt.

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