Hanna Saliba never expected a university scholarship would also give him a new community, practical classroom experience, and a pathway back to the school where he once studied.
Now in his second year of a Bachelor of Education at ACU Strathfield, the Aquinas Catholic College Menai graduate is studying to become a Secondary teacher while working as a Learning Support Officer at his former school — an opportunity he says was shaped by the Sydney Catholic Schools Future Teacher Scholarship.
With applications now open for the 2026 Sydney Catholic Schools Teacher Scholarship Programs, eligible Year 12 students are being encouraged to consider a future in Catholic education through scholarships offering up to $22,000 in financial support, mentoring, and hands-on teaching experience while studying at university.
“I’ve made heaps of friends through it,” Hanna says. “A lot of the people I spend time with at uni are the ones I met through the scholarship.”
The connections formed through the program also helped Hanna return to Aquinas Menai, where he now supports students while continuing his studies.
He says the experience has reinforced what teaching is really about.
“As much as we’re in schools to teach students the curriculum, we’re also helping them grow as people and prepare for life beyond school,” he says. “Whether it’s encouraging them to try their best or teaching respect for others, having faith behind that gives the work real purpose.”
Sydney Catholic Schools Teacher Development and Pathways Specialist Jo Thompson says the scholarships are designed to support aspiring teachers both financially and professionally.
“The financial support helps ease pressure for our students so they can focus on learning during an important stage of their lives,” she says.
“But what really makes a difference is the mentoring and guidance they receive along the way. We’re not just offering a scholarship — we’re building a community of future educators.”
Ms Thompson says the program also helps students transition from university into the workforce by providing ongoing support and professional opportunities throughout their studies.
For Hanna, the advice to other students considering applying is straightforward.
“Definitely apply,” he says. “It’s created so many opportunities for me. The financial support has helped reduce stress and allowed me to focus on my studies, and knowing there is a clear employment pathway within Sydney Catholic Schools after graduation gives you confidence about the future.”
Sydney Catholic Schools also encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, with five scholarships specifically reserved for Indigenous applicants.
Two scholarship pathways are available for eligible Year 12 students:
- Future Teacher Scholarship — up to 40 places available for students attending any NSW university
- Catholic Education Foundation Teaching Scholarship — 10 places available for students studying at ACU Strathfield or the University of Notre Dame Sydney
Applications close at 5:00pm on Sunday 21 June 2026.
Published 6-May-2026
