The more training and education you have behind you the greater your chance of gaining full time, long term and well paid employment. As more and more unskilled jobs move offshore it is really important to gain some form of post-school education or training to ensure you have the best opportunity at developing the career you want.

Post-school study is an option for everyone because there are so many pathways available. The majority of Year 12 school leavers will go on to do some form of tertiary education either through TAFE, university or other Registered Training Organisation. If you are interested in a career as a tradesperson Vocational Education and Training will offer you nationally recognised qualifications in any one of hundreds of occupations.

Australia’s universities are recognised as among the best in the world and their degrees are generally accepted by most overseas employers. Year 12 students apply for university entrance through their local Tertiary Admissions Centre. In many states the same process is used to apply for both university and full time TAFE diploma level courses. It is always best to check with the training provider that you intend to study with about their particular application process.

If you already have a job lined up to go into straight from school, remember that undertaking further training or study will help you with your career progression. There are now many flexible study arrangements available including part time, external, online and on campus.

Education and Training pays off

There have never been so many education and training options available to school leavers! This is great news because employment opportunities are better for people who do further study after school. ABS figures show that the unemployment rate for those with a bachelor degree or above was half the rate than for those without such qualifications.

Education and training not only improves your chances of gaining long term employment it also means you are likely to earn more money than those who don’t go onto further study or training.

Unemployment rate by highest educational qualification (%)

* Estimate has a relative standard error of 25% to 50% and should be used with caution. At first glance, the cost of further study may seem overwhelming. You need take into account course fees, text books, transport and living expenses but there are many services out there that can support you. These may include student concessions, scholarships or assistance with money to help take the load off course fees and living expenses.

Don’t forget there are also scholarships available that you can apply for which will help to pay for all or part of your study. Individual institutions offer scholarships for students who have excelled or to assist students with special needs, including rural students or students from low income families. A searchable database for scholarships nationwide can be found in the Facts section of myfuture.