Ninety-four per cent of 2021 year 12 graduates from ACT schools were employed or undertaking further study, or both, in 2022, compared to the national rate of 92 per cent. This is according to the ACT Post School Destinations and Pathways in 2022 report released today.

The ACT Education Directorate released the 2022 report, which also shows that: 

• 62 per cent of 2021 year 12 graduates were studying in 2022, and of those who were not studying, 63 per cent intended to start some study in the next two years.
• 48 per cent of 2021 school leavers were studying in 2022, and of those who were not studying, 34 per cent intended to start some study in the next two years.
• 80 per cent of 2021 year 12 graduates were employed in 2022, compared with 68 per cent of 2020 school leavers.

School leaders, teachers and support staff work every day to equip students for success when they leave school. This support was appreciated by those who graduated, with 80 per cent reporting that they found year 11 and 12 a valuable and enriching experience. 

The value of completing an ACT Senior Secondary Certificate was highlighted by the longer-term data.

The results from a longitudinal survey of 2019 year 12 graduates and school leavers show that, on average, young people who complete year 12 have more positive employment and study outcomes in the first two years after leaving school.

Career and vocational pathways are an excellent option available in ACT colleges for students not looking to attend university.

Minister for Education, Yvette Berry said: “A great education sets our young people up for success and a fair crack at happiness in life. That’s why education will always be a highest priority for the ACT Government.”

“The ACT Government is continuing to deliver it’s commitment to high quality education through the Future of Education Strategy. We know that high quality public education infrastructure makes a positive impact on a student’s overall learning experience.

“That’s why the 2023-24 ACT Budget committed more than $800 million of public school infrastructure projects over the next four years – the biggest investment in public education infrastructure in ACT Government history.”

The full ACT Post School Destinations and Pathways in 2022 report is available at www.education.act.gov.au.