New Sprouts
Scholarship

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A Child's Education Cannot Wait: The New Sprouts Scholarship on the Gold Coast

The New Sprouts Scholarship: Beginning July 2022

Since July 2022, Tzu Chi volunteers from the Gold Coast have run the New Sprouts Scholarship at Brassall State School in Ipswich, Queensland. Inspired by Dharma Master Cheng Yen's teaching that a child's education cannot wait, the program supports families experiencing financial hardship and helps children continue their education.

The partnership with Brassall State School grew from the connection Tzu Chi volunteers established with the school following the 2011 Queensland floods. More than a decade of trust and community engagement provided the foundation for the scholarship program.

From Fixed Places to Broader Support

In its early years, the scholarship supported 12 students each semester, helping ease the educational expenses of families in need.

From February 2025, the approach changed. Rather than limiting assistance to 12 students, Tzu Chi began providing $6,000 per semester directly to the school, allowing the school to distribute the funds according to students' needs and reach more children requiring support.

One Song, Carrying Love and Care Forward

At the scholarship presentation on 23 February 2025, Tzu Chi volunteers performed the English version of Tzu Chi's song "Love and Care for All" while carrying traditional Chinese lanterns. Music teacher Natasha Ruddie was deeply moved by the song and thanked Tzu Chi for sharing it with the school. She expressed her wish to teach the song to the Prep students and record a video to share with Tzu Chi.

The story reflects how educational support can extend beyond financial assistance. Through music, love and care can reach children in another way and continue to grow within the school community.

Since its launch in 2022, the New Sprouts Scholarship has continued to support children at Brassall State School, helping them learn with confidence and grow with greater opportunities.