A record number of scholarships have been awarded to early childhood educators in NSW to boost the availability, accessibility, and quality of early learning and care.

More than 100 budding educators across the state will receive up to $20,000 each to support their study of a Bachelor-level Early Childhood Teaching qualification from 2022.

Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said the scholarship program is part of the NSW Government’s commitment to increase the number of early childhood teachers working in the sector in NSW.

“Quality early childhood education is incredibly important and having access to qualified teachers is an essential element for our services, communities and especially our youngest learners,” Ms Mitchell said.

“We know the past two years have been challenging for the Early Childhood Education sector, so it’s important we are providing support to build a highly qualified and sustainable workforce.

“This year, we have a record 114 scholars, including 25 Aboriginal scholars who will help nurture and celebrate First Nations perspectives and culture in early childhood education across the state.”

The scholarships are designed to meet the needs of children and families, including those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living in regional and remote locations, and those working with children with disability and additional needs.

"We had so many quality applicants this year, with many already working in community preschools and long day care services. It’s great to be able to support these applicants to upgrade their qualifications to a four-year bachelor degree in early childhood teaching,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Scholarship recipients will deepen their understanding of early childhood environments, and gain additional skills and capabilities.

“I congratulate the scholars on their commitment to education and I wish them every success in their studies and future careers as qualified early childhood teachers.”

Further details about the scholarships are available on the department’s website