At the heart of the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector are the skilled and dedicated teachers and educators that make all the difference for children, families, and communities.

The NSW Department of Education is committed to developing a highly qualified and sustainable ECEC workforce. The NSW Government has committed up to $27 million to deliver the 2026 ECEC Scholarship Program, which will provide around 2000 scholarships over two rounds. These scholarships will help reduce the financial burden of study for a wide range of early learning professionals.

Whether you’re just starting out in the sector or have been a part of it for years, we aim to support you on every step of your career journey.

This page is a home for new scholarship announcements, as well as information and guidelines for past scholarship programs.

Round 1 of the 2026 ECEC Scholarship Program will open on Monday 16 February 2026.

When applications open, the program guidelines will be updated to include a link that will take you to the online application form.

ECEC Vocational Education and Training Scholarships

Early Childhood Teaching Scholarships

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ECEC Scholarships

Inclusive Education Scholarships

Rural and Remote Scholarships

NSW Premier's Teacher Scholarships

The NSW Premier's Teacher Scholarships provide $15,000 for a 5-week study tour within Australia or abroad, allowing NSW teachers to explore best practice in their chosen focus area.

The scholarships are open to permanent and temporary teachers in NSW government and non-government schools, on TAFE NSW campuses and across early childhood education and care services. Scholarships are awarded in the year prior to the study tour.

Early Childhood Teachers are encouraged to consider all scholarships categories. Please visit the Premier's Teacher Scholarships webpages to find out more information about opening dates and how to apply.

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