The department recognises that young parents and especially young mothers who leave school early face greater hardship and poverty than young people who complete their education. Therefore, enhancing educational opportunities and improving outcomes for all students remains a priority.
The department is committed to supporting the retention of pregnant and parenting students in schools and acknowledges that one of the most effective ways to minimise the risk of negative outcomes in terms of health, welfare and educational achievement is to support pregnant young women and young parents to remain connected to learning.
State secondary schools have access to
guidelines to retain and support pregnant and parenting young people in education and, in consultation with students, may establish coordinated links with other government and external agencies. In addition, state schools provide a range of student support services at the school to support pregnant and parenting students to continue their education, including guidance officers, school-based youth health nurses and youth support coordinators.
Pregnant and parenting students have several options for continuing and completing their education. Schools can provide advice to students and assist them to work out which option will best suit their circumstances based on their age, school year, level of family support and availability of local services. Options may include adjusting the student's individual education program so that their school workload is manageable in conjunction with caring responsibilities, a partial exemption from schooling, or a flexible arrangement.
Refer to these frequently asked questions for further information, contact your
local school.