ALA

Campaign: learn or earn until 17

13 October 2008

School is back today and it signals the start of a major information campaign preparing for the introduction of compulsory learning or earning until the age of 17 from 2009.

During this school term, Education Minister Jane Lomax-Smith will write to some 65,000 parents of students in Years 8, 9 and 10 to inform them about the changes.

The information campaign also includes fact sheets for young people and information for employers and registered training organisations.

“We want every young South Australian to have the best hope of achieving a bright future,” Dr Lomax-Smith says.

“Research in Australia and overseas shows that young people who learn for longer are far more likely to find good jobs and earn more money.

“That’s why the Rann Government has taken an important step to require all young people to be learning or earning until they turn 17.

“From 1 January 2009, young people must be in full-time education until at least the age of 17.

“However, we want people to understand that doesn’t mean full-time schooling. A student could be at TAFE, doing an apprenticeship or undertaking some other form of training.

“Sixteen year-olds can leave school to start work if the job is at least 25 hours a week. They can apply for an exemption through their school.

“For most students there will be no change at all. Students will only be affected if they wish to leave school to start work at 16.

“What this new law essentially means is that leaving school to do nothing is no longer an option.

“It is estimated that up to 1200 16 year-old South Australians leave school each year without a clear plan for their future.

“We now have so many options for students including Trade Schools for the Future and alternative programs such as Innovative Community Action Networks or ICANs.”

The new legislation – part of the Rann Government’s $84m School to Work strategy – involves students in Catholic, Independent and Government schools.