TAFE NSW and furniture design company Stylecraft have joined forces to offer a new First Nations Interior Design Scholarship in 2022 to further encourage Indigenous Australians to join the ever-evolving local design industry.
With CommSec reporting a 7.4% increase in loans for home renovation in June 2021, and Job Outlook predicting employment in interior design will grow 16.3% over the next five years, it’s the perfect time for aspiring interior designers to start their careers.
The scholarship will cover the full fees for the Bachelor of Interior Design at TAFE NSW Design Centre Enmore, along with providing educational support throughout the studies of the successful applicant.
Stylecraft managing director, Anthony Collins, said the scholarship presented an exciting opportunity for aspiring Indigenous designers to get a head start in the thriving interior design industry.
“Stylecraft has committed to the scholarship program for three years. By 2024, three students will be in the Interior Design stream completing the scholarship program. We will also work with TAFE NSW to identify any internship or mentoring opportunities for scholarship recipients within Stylecraft or industry partners and clients.
“The ultimate aim of the program is to encourage participation by Indigenous Australians in the interior design profession, and we look forward to contributing to the students’ design journey.”
TAFE NSW Creative and Design Ideation Head of Skills Team, Richard Cass, said the scholarships will be awarded on the basis of study and career potential – including career goals, motivation and creative portfolio.
“The Bachelor of Interior Design allows students to develop practical design skills and learn the theory needed to equip them with a sound understanding of design best practice, both in Australia and internationally,” he said.
“TAFE NSW will ensure that scholarship recipients receive academic support through progressive review and solutions with head teachers, teachers and the Aboriginal Education and Engagement Team.
“TAFE NSW Design Centre Enmore is a purpose-built design studio where students are able to immerse themselves in design. It’s the perfect place to build design skills and get a head start in the booming interior design industry.”
To apply
Students will need to first enrol into the Bachelor of Interior Design course via this link, and through the application process they can apply for the scholarship. The course starts on 14 February and they’re taking applications now up until the course start date.
