Heather Roy

Wellington, Sept 16 NZPA - Details of scholarships for low income families to send students to private secondary schools were announced today.

This year's budget allocated $2.6 million for the Aspire scholarship programme with 150 to be awarded in the 2010 school year - 50 each in years 9, 10 and 11.

The number awarded will increase to 200 in 2011 and 250 in 2012.

Associate Education Minister Heather Roy said successful applicants could choose the private school of their choice with the Government providing up to $15,000 for school fees and up to $1500 for course-related costs.

The scholarships were for families earning less than $65,000 with a net worth of $150,000 or less.

Applications for next year close on October 14 with all eligible applicants entered into a randomly selected ballot.

A second ballot will be held later in October for unsuccessful and late applicants.

Mrs Roy said the scholarships would help widen the education choices available for students.