Students to keep learning longer

News bulletin: 9 September 2009

From January next year, the minimum school leaving age will rise from 16 to 17.

All Victorian students will be required to complete Year 10 and remain in some form of education, training or employment until the age of 17 through this amendment to the Education and Training Reform Act.

Research has shown that young people who stay in education or training longer significantly boost their career prospects and their earning capacity throughout their working lives.

There are a range of education and training options that young people can choose from to meet this new requirement, including vocational education and training and school based apprenticeships.

“We have some fantastic examples of vocational programs that are inspiring students to broaden their horizons and become job-ready while still at school.

“Victorian students are embracing these options, with more students staying on to complete Year 12 or its equivalent,” Minister for Education, Bronwyn Pike said.

In 2008, the percentage of young people who completed Year 12 or equivalent rose to 88.7 per cent – up from 81.8 per cent in 2000, an increase of 6.9 per cent. 

All States and Territories will implement the National Youth Participation Requirement next year, which includes a mandatory requirement for students to complete Year 10 or an equivalent and be in some form of education, training or employment until the age of 17.

For more information about the study options available in Victorian schools, see: Stages at School or Where to now? for information on VCE, VCAL , apprenticeships and training.