Life after school - Pathways, Engagement and Transitions
Have you ever wondered what life is like after Year 12? We have, too. That's why our Pathways, Engagement and Transitions research followed the journey of 800 former Learning for Life students who finished school in 2020.
Over three years, they shared what helped them move forward, what held them back, and what life after school really looks like. Their stories give us a rare insight into the realities facing young people as they navigate work and study.
What we found
What happened at school matters
After leaving school, young people are more likely to be fully engaged in work and/or study if they have achieved one of these:
- C or above in Year 9 Maths or English
- 90% or above attendance in Year 9
- Completed Year 12
The first year shows that future post-school paths are rarely linear. But being fully engaged in work or study in the first year after leaving school predicts ongoing engagement.
- 73% who were working and/or studying full-time in their first year after school continued this into year three
But only
- 28% of those not working or studying in year one were in full-time work and/or study by year three
Work? Study? Careers?
Three years after they had left school…
- 80% had finished or were on track to finish a qualification
- 72% of young people were working
- 40% were working only. Of these 64% worked part-time and 46% wanted more hours
Post-school success factors
Young people consistently working and/or studying full-time after leaving Year 12 had a range of external and individual factors in common:
- Career management and problem solving skills
- Goal setting and strong support networks.
- Good health and stable housing
Things to do
Complete these learning modules from Job Jumpstart.What we heard from students
People finishing high school should always talk to their career advisor from school, and talk to people from different industries about what their jobs look like, and their experience. And always ask questions… the more you ask, the more you gain.
I’m not going to give up. I don’t give up. If I want something, I’m going to keep trying for it.
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