Young people of school age in TAFE

Current data and research show an increase in 15 to 19 year olds in TAFE New South Wales (NSW). Many of these young people, particularly the 15 (and under) and 16 year olds and those with multiple and serious disadvantages enrol in general education courses. At present many 15 to 19 year olds are unable or unwilling to stay at school and there are a number of reasons for this. Concerns have been expressed about the behaviour of some of the young people and the resources involved in meeting their learning needs.

This research and the literature emphasise the importance of closer links between schools, the local TAFE Campus and employers and other organisations. It also bodes well for the importance of the involvement of TAFE in the senior colleges that seem to becoming more commonplace in NSW. Five case studies from the 'Helping young people at risk' program in TAFE highlight selected examples of good practice and innovative strategies which are specifically offered and designed for youth 'in transition' and include many of the key ingredients for successful transition from school to work.

Excerpt from published paper reprinted by permission of the copyright owner.

Current data and research show an increase in 15 to 19 year olds in TAFE New South Wales (NSW). Many of these young people, particularly the 15 (and under) and 16 year olds and those with multiple and serious disadvantages enrol in general education courses. At present many 15 to 19 year olds are unable or unwilling to stay at school and there are a number of reasons for this. Concerns have been expressed about the behaviour of some of the young people and the resources involved in meeting their learning needs.

This research and the literature emphasise the importance of closer ...  [+] Show more