The Australia Cambodia Education Academy (AusCam Academy) on Monday hosted the Australia Day Scholarship Award celebration, and welcomed visitors – bringing together parents and students to learn more about Australian culture, the campus and international opportunities provided by the academy.

The two-hour event at its Chroy Changvar campus was presided over by AusCam Academy principal Kim Peters and Australian Ambassador to Cambodia Pablo Kang, who lauded the value of education, calling it a top priority for both Australians and Cambodians.

Ambassador Kang went on to highlight Australia’s commitment to developing quality education in Cambodia, adding that, since 1994, more than 850 Cambodian students have been awarded scholarships by the Australian government to undertake postgraduate studies in Australia.

“World class education, proximity to Cambodia, great natural beauty, cultural diversity, positive living experience and wonderful weather were among the reasons making Australia by far the most popular English-speaking destination for Cambodian students,” said Ambassador Kang.

He also commended those who have decided to enrol for Australian curriculum programme and choosing to further their study in Australia that they have made a great choice and they won’t regret it.

Held prior to Australia Day, which takes place on January 26, the event was also an opportunity for current and prospective parents and students, along with public and private sector guests, to interact.

Offering a quality blend of Cambodian and Australian curricula, AusCam Academy has become an industry leader for students aged three to 18, and Peters said this is down to the spirit of excellence and global leadership offered at AusCam Academy.

“With over a decade of educational leadership in Australia and internationally, I place emphasis on educating students from a holistic point of view on being a good global citizen.

“With her 15 years of experience in the education industry – with IB, Cambridge, Canadian, American and Australian Curriculum – AusCamAcademy helps students learn according to their different learning styles and needs so they can make as much progress as possible. Our students will be also doing lots of arts and sport lessons in a supporting, caring and nurturing environment,” said Peters.

Through support from the Victoria State Department of Education and Training and in collaboration with sister schools in Australia, students who plan to further or transfer their study to Australia have the option of two years’ study for Australian state and territory education certificates in addition to Australia university foundation pathway that is also available at AusCam academy by Swinburne University of Technology, Australia.

The university foundation programme by Australia’s Swinburne University of Technology is suitable for grade 11 and 12 students who wish to study in Australia. This is run in conjunction with the Overseas Learning Centre at AusCam Academy.

Peters said the foundation programme prepares students prior to embarking on their overseas education so that they become accustomed to the culture, making studying abroad more successful.

“Students can learn parts of the majors that they are going to study in Australia. When they’re ready, they are more independent and know what university looks like.

AusCam Academy embraces diversity and inclusivity when it comes to students, Peters said, adding that teachers work with students to help them find the best way to learn.

The Australia Day Scholarship Award ceremony was also attended by ACE principal and Australian Chamber of Commerce president Ashley Irving, International Business Chamber executive director Katherine McLean, ACE and IDP Education country director Mao Sreng and parents from Chroy Changvar community.

The AusCam Academy is located at 658 Tonle Sap Road, Chroy Chongvar (opposite the Chea Sim Chroy Chongvar High School), in Phnom Penh.