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The Herman and Lesley Derksen Backstage Scholarships

The Herman and Lesley Dircksen Backstage Scholarships honour the life and generosity of Lesley Dircksen, a passionate educator and lifelong supporter of the performing arts. Raised in Kalgoorlie, Lesley developed an early love of performance through speaking, singing, and theatre. She later studied literature and history dedicating her career to teaching English, taking great joy in supporting young people’s learning and creativity. A committed supporter of WAAPA, Lesley especially valued backstage practitioners, whom she regarded as the “unsung heroes” of every production, and she delighted in celebrating student success. Following her passing in September 2024, this scholarship reflects her enduring commitment to education and the arts The scholarships support full-time WAAPA students enrolled in the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Production and Design), across backstage specialisations. Each scholarship is valued at $10,000, with five Excellence and five Equity Scholarships available.

Important dates

Opens: 1-03-2026 Closes: 30-03-2026

Applies to

Domestic Undergraduate

At a glance

  • This scholarship is open to current ECU students.
  • Questions about this scholarship can be directed to AskUs.

Eligibility guidelines

To be eligible for this scholarship you must:

  • be an Australian citizen or permanent resident;
  • have and maintain an academic progression status of GREEN;
  • not currently be in receipt of another scholarship valued of $5000 per year; and
  • be currently enrolled full-time in the Bachelor of Performing Arts Y97, Majoring in Production and Design MAAAII and undertaking one of the following specialisations;
    • Costume
    • Design
    • Lighting
    • Stage Management
    • Props and Scenery

How to apply

Excellence Scholarships

Students currently enrolled in the eligible course will automatically be considered for the Scholarship . The Selection Committees decision will be based on the professional judgement of the Executive and Executive Dean (or their nominated person/s) The successful recipients will be contacted.

Equity Scholarships

Application is made via the ECU Online Scholarship Application Portal. Access to the portal is available between application opening and closing dates.

Applicants will be required to provide a personal statement of no more than 500 words addressing the following;

  • Detail circumstances which have had a significant impact on your capacity to study and outline what you hope to achieve upon completion of your studies. You should also indicate how the ECU Equity Scholarship will help you achieve these goals.

Selection Process

Eligible applications will be assessed by a Selection Committee.

Selection will be based on:

  • Demonstrated need and personal circumstances

For more information

Contact AskUs.

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