Leaving School
What’s next?
Leaving school is a big step, and the path you take after depends on your interests, strengths, and goals. Whether you’re looking to work, study, or explore alternative options, there are plenty of pathways to help you succeed.
Pathways After School
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Start earning and gaining experience straight away.
Look for entry-level roles, traineeships, apprenticeships, or jobs with on-the-job training.
Consider roles that match your interests and offer opportunities for growth.
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Continue your education through university, TAFE, or an RTO (Registered Training Organisation).
Explore vocational education and training (VET) courses that match your career goals.
Some students return later to study once they have more work experience.
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Earn while you learn in a hands-on environment.
Available in many industries including trades, business, health, and hospitality.
Combine work with nationally recognised training.
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A great way to gain skills, build your resume, and explore new interests.
Can lead to paid employment and provides valuable work experience.
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If you’re thinking of leaving school before you complete year 10 or are under 17, talk to a parent, carer or teacher about some of the options on this page or visit:
https://www.vic.gov.au/if-your-child-wants-leave-school-early
Do you need assistance with this decision?
Gap Year
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Take time to work, travel, volunteer, or explore different options before committing to a study or career path.
It’s okay to not know straight away what you want to do.
If you’re not sure what you want to do after finishing year 12, a gap year can give you time to consider your options.
You can take a gap year whether or not you've been accepted into a university or TAFE course. If you've been accepted into a course, though, part of taking a gap year will involve deferring your studies.
Why should I take a gap year?
Here are some reasons you might choose to take a gap year:
You didn't get into the course you wanted and you want to reapply for a different course at the end of the year.
You want to take a break from studying.
You want to gain skills and experience to help you get into a course.
You want to make some money before going to university or TAFE.
What can I do during a gap year?
There are lots of things that you can do during a gap year. Whether you want to improve your job prospects or get some experience related to what you'll be studying, or even if you just want a break, here are some ideas to consider.
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Taking a gap year isn't about running away from responsibility—it's about running towards opportunity, growth, and self-discovery.
In this article...
Post School Support Services
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Young people don’t have to navigate the transition to work on their own. Reaching out to employment advisors and career coaches can provide valuable guidance, encouragement, and practical strategies. These professionals can help identify individual strengths, explore career pathways, build job-ready skills, and connect young people with opportunities that match their goals.
Having someone in your corner can make the journey into work feel less overwhelming and far more empowering
Get help with resumes, job applications, course info, and planning your next steps.
Speak to a school careers practitioner or contact a local support program.
Skills & Jobs Centre - click here
All Skills and Jobs Centre services are free. We provide job seekers with advice on job opportunities, training advice and link you to a range of services across Melbourne’s south east.
Our specialist team of career professionals help jobseekers looking to enter the workforce, start training or re-skill. We also match employers with qualified job seekers to assist with their workforce needs.
We support individuals, employers and schools.
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Offers tailored support for young people who have left school and aren’t working or studying.
Helps with planning, training options, and building confidence.
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Supports students aged 12–17 who have stopped attending school regularly.
Helps you re-engage with education in a way that works for you.
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The Workforce Australia - Transition to Work program is designed to help participants aged 15-24 gain the skills, experience, and qualifications needed for a pathway into work or study.
In the program, you will receive intensive, pre-employment support to develop the right skills to get the job you want, connect with education or training, and connect with your local community with the support of an Asuria Youth Mentor.