While the next three years may seem daunting for Year 10s across the country, two local students have received a boost for the future.

Siena Adams and Madison Knight of Cobram Secondary College were recently awarded the ABCN Accelerate scholarship, which combines mentoring and financial support for Australian students from low socio-economic backgrounds.

The pair said they weren’t expecting good news when their teachers pulled them aside to speak about the scholarship.

“When they pulled us aside to talk to us, I thought they were going to tell us that we didn’t get it, so that was what I was prepared for,” Siena said.

“But I was really excited when I got it, and my family was excited, too.”

Madison added that it was her family’s response that was truly rewarding.

“I was really happy,” she said.

“The teachers told us at the same time, and they did it in a way where they were really suspicious, and then they told us.

“I think my favourite part was telling my parents that I got it, though. They were really, really happy for me.”

The scholarship amounts to $7000 spread out over three years, with $2000 for Years 11 and 12 and $3000 for the year following school.

The funding will support the students with educational expenses, such as the cost of textbooks and tutors, and alleviate financial hardships.

Madison said the scholarship would ease her stress about the coming years.

“I’m really excited to be able to have a mentor help me through VCE because I was really nervous going into it; I’m not sure what it’s like, I’m not sure what I have to do,” she said.

“I want to do physio in the future, and they can also help me look at where to go, help me get into the course. I feel like it will be really great.

“I’ll also have funds to buy textbooks and all of the equipment that I need.”

Siena said it would support her VCE journey.

“The financial aspect is really good, I’m planning to use it for tutoring so that I can maximise my ATAR, and that’ll give me a better chance of getting into university,” she said.

The two thanked teachers Mr Brown and Mr Allen for nominating them for the scholarship and supporting them during the application process.

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Tuesday, 4th January 2028

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