Our direction

Improving the retention rates of students beyond Year 10 is vital for Tasmania to realise its potential in a globalised, creative and innovation-based economy. The department is committed to turning Tasmania's poor retention rates around so that many more Year 10 students continue with their education and training.

Research consistently shows that young people who participate in education and training beyond Year 10 improve their life choices and success. Those who do not are more likely to narrow their opportunities and experience difficulties in adulthood. Improving retention rates will also help drive Tasmania's longer term economic and social wellbeing.

A number of strategies for improving post-Year 10 retention in education and training have been developed and/or implemented. From 2008, the Guaranteeing Futures legislation will require most young Tasmanians to engage in education and training beyond Year 10. A broad range of opportunities and pathways have been developed to support increased participation in post-Year 10 education and training from 2008.

The Qualifications and Skills for Tasmania Tomorrow initiative will revitalise post-Year 10 learning opportunities. The initiative will ensure that the educational excellence of our senior secondary colleges and the vocational expertise of our highly regarded TAFE Tasmania meet the needs of even more Tasmanians.

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