The launch of School to Scholar Program

The Northern Communities Health and Research Foundation (NCHRF) is proud to announce the launch of the School to Scholar program, beginning in 2026. This initiative is designed to support and inspire secondary school students from Adelaide’s northern suburbs to pursue careers in medicine, while providing senior medical students with valuable experience in mentoring, leadership, and community engagement.

Many young people in northern Adelaide face barriers when aspiring to a career in medicine. They may be the first in their family to attend university, have limited exposure to medical professionals, and few natural links to medical school. School to Scholar addresses these challenges by pairing students with senior medical students from the Northern Scholars program as mentors. Through one-on-one mentoring, interactive workshops, and community-based activities, students gain practical guidance, inspiration, and the confidence to see a medical career as achievable. By providing visible and relatable role models, the program helps students navigate the path to medical school and beyond.

The program also benefits senior medical students, who step into funded mentoring and leadership roles. These students, completing their clinical training through the Northern Scholars program at Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, develop essential skills in teaching, leadership, and community engagement. These experiences enhance their professional growth while giving them the opportunity to positively influence the next generation of health professionals.

Jointly led by the Adelaide University and the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, School to Scholar reflects a shared commitment to educational opportunity, professional development, and stronger community connections. The program forms part of the Foundations’ broader mission to improve health outcomes in northern Adelaide. By funding research, supporting community initiatives, and fostering partnerships with local health organisations, Northern Community Health & Research Foundation works to create lasting impact in the region.

Through initiatives like School to Scholar, we continue to build pathways for young people to reach their full potential while strengthening the future of healthcare in northern communities.