Senior Phase of Learning

Education and training for 15 to 17 year olds

Education and training for young people in Queensland has changed in recent years. A new 'compulsory participation' requirement means that all young people must participate in 'learning or earning':

for two years after they complete compulsory schooling (i.e. completed year 10 or turned 16 years of age) or
until they turn 17 years of age or
until they complete a Queensland Certificate of Education, Senior Statement or a Certificate III or IV vocational qualification.

Supporting the new compulsory participation phase, young people have more opportunities than ever before to plan for their education and future career, to set goals, and to work towards those goals in a broader range of education settings, including school, TAFE and other training.

Young people also have access to more support to help them through their education and training.

However, some young people will have difficulties meeting the requirements of compulsary participation. The Department's preferred approach is to prevent disengagement through proactive early intervention and support for young people who are at risk of disengaging.

These changes are based on national and international evidence that young people who complete 12 years of education have greater opportunities for further education and sustainable employment.

The Queensland Government wants to provide the best possible education for every young person in Queensland.

For more information, click on the links below:

^ Top of page