Out of education

The research for this report began with a focus on a target group of 'at risk' 16 and 17 year olds who were not in education, training or employment. The initial aim of the project was to test 'anecdotal' evidence about what these young people were doing and how they were supporting themselves. The intention was that, through improved knowledge of the views, activities and aspirations of these young people, improved provision could be made for them in the areas of education and training. Those young people, who had not returned to school, training or employment as a result of the changes to the Youth Allowance conditions, were of particular interest to this research. The initial research on questions such as what were they doing, what financial and other support were they receiving and why were young people not taking up educational and training options were the perspectives for the research. However, the establishment of the Ministerial Review of Post Compulsory Education and Training Pathways in Victoria in 2000 initiated a broader interest. In particular, the target group for the research widened to include some designated 'at risk' young people (outside the school system)who are receiving the Youth Allowance, and also extended the target age range to include 14 to 18 year olds. Show less