Former winner tells others to ‘go for it’
22 July 2019
King Country school leavers planning to train or study next year are being urged to apply for a three-year scholarship by one of last year’s recipients.
Paige Coffin-Bell was one of five local students who won an Inspiring Local Minds Scholarship last year from The Lines Company (TLC). Paige, formerly head girl at Piopio College, won the TLC Chair’s Award, picking up $3,000 per year for three years to support her study at the University of Waikato. The other four applicants each won $2,000 per year for three years.
Now TLC is calling for a new crop of scholarship applications and Paige’s advice is simple.
“Just go for it, you’ve got nothing to lose,” she said.
“I went into it quite nervous because you typically think you won’t get it but it’s far better just to try. I would definitely encourage people to give it a go. It’s not just about the scholarship. It opens up more opportunities and you’ll make some good connections.”
In addition to their scholarship money, Paige and another of last year’s winners, Gemma Gaukrodger, also secured paid work at TLC during their university holidays. TLC chief executive Sean Horgan said the holiday jobs were a way of exposing them to the industry.
“Paige and Gemma did a great job, it was really good having them around,” Horgan said.
“I’d love to see others come through as well so take Paige’s advice, look at what the scholarships are about and give it a go.”
“The scholarships are not just for those who plan on going to university. We’re looking to support King Country school leavers who will be doing some training in the kinds of jobs we need here at TLC. That could be anything from a university degree to a trades apprenticeship.”
Last year 25 students applied for five Inspiring Local Minds Scholarships. This year, a further five scholarships will be offered. Applications will open on August 1 and close on August 30. Application forms will be online at TLC from August 1 and have also been sent to all local secondary schools. To apply students must:
- Live or have gone to school in the TLC network area
- Be graduating from high school and intend to continue studying or training next year
- Have been accepted into their chosen course or trade at a recognised institution
- Have a proven record of achievement in a range of areas (sporting, leadership, academic, community).
To apply and for more information visit Giving Back on our website