NSW students to tour historic battlefields

Minister for Veterans Affairs David Elliott today launched the 2019 Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship (PAMS), giving 20 high school students across NSW the chance to see firsthand the battlefields that fill the pages of Australia’s military story.

The lucky Year 10 and 11 history students will visit historic sites and battlegrounds in Germany, France and Belgium to deepen their understanding of the causes of war and to commemorate the service of Australians in World War I and II.

Mr Elliott said the scholarship tour would enable students to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the sacrifice and courage of service men and women.

“As the Centenary of Anzac draws to a close, it is vital we continue to teach the Anzac story to new generations so the contribution of Australia’s military can be honoured for centuries to come,” Mr Elliott said.

“Walking in the footsteps of Australian soldiers is an educational experience like no other. It will be an incredibly moving time for students.”

Scholars from previous years have travelled to significant battlefields in France, Belgium and Turkey, tracing the steps of Australian soldiers in Gallipoli, Hamel, Fromelles, Pozieres and Polygon Wood.

NSW secondary schools are now eligible to submit an online application to enter a ballot for the scholarship. The 20 successful schools will then select three potential scholars based on a piece of work on key themes from the NSW History Curriculum. One lucky scholar will then be selected from each school to travel on the tour.

Schools can submit an expression of interest until 10am, 15 October 2018 via an online portal. Visit the PAMS  page on the NSW Office for Veterans Affairs website for more information.