The Year 9 Great Lakes College, Forster student has been awarded a prestigious Harding Miller Education Foundation academic scholarship.

"I didn't think I would fit the circumstances," Ellie said.

But, it didn't take long for the good news to sink in with her disbelief turning into ecstasy, an emotion shared with her proud mum, Leanne.

"It felt so great to know that I would have people and tools to help me get through my high school years smoothly."

More than 400 secondary high school students from throughout the country applied for the scholarship, which has a focus on supporting hardworking and high academic achieving young women. Ellie was one of 139 to receive the scholarship.

The scholarship program provides scholarship winners with valuable tools and support to help optimise academic success and achieve their career aspirations.

Ellie and her cohorts each receive new laptops, high speed internet, face-to-face and online tutoring, subject and career guidance, mentoring and financial support to help cover the costs of uniforms, books and school expenses.

Concerned about her maths results, Ellie is using part of her scholarship to brush up on the subject with additional online tutoring for an hour weekly.

"I was in the top 10 ranking in the class until last year; it is getting harder with each year."

Harding Miller Education Foundation executive director, Cara Varian said Ellie was well deserving of the two -year scholarship.

"We are sure it will help her achieve success in coming years and put her in a position to fulfill tertiary education and career aspirations after school," she said.

She consistently achieves As in English, science, drama and music, Bs in maths and geography, and C in sport.

Outside the school fence, Ellie attends mixed martial arts classes in Tuncurry.

"I like to keep in shape because I'm not good at sport and like learning to defend myself."

Ellie also said it was reassuring to know she could disengage if attacked.

While Ellie still has three years of secondary education left before university, she is interested in pursuing a career in psychology.

"Or in the creative interest I like - music and drama."

She began playing the piano as an eight-year-old, but more consistently in the past two years.

"I love playing the piano."

She also loves playing with her dog Jessie and two cats.

The first Forster campus student to be awarded the scholarship, Ellie said The Harding Miller also empowered girls and helped break the cycle of poverty.

"We encourage any other local young girls who may need support to consider applying for a Harding Miller Education Foundation scholarship this year," Ms Varian said.

Since its launch in 2015 The Harding Miller Education Foundation has supported 470 scholarship recipients.

Applications for scholarships for 2021 close on September 23.

To find out more information, get involved or support the Harding Miller Education Foundation visit the website HERE.

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