Media release

The need for alternative pathways is clear. While the Year 7/8 to Year 12 retention rate in NSW rose slightly in 2024 to 74.5 per cent, the latest ABS data shows around one in four students still leave school before completing Year 12. For many, TAFE NSW provides a second chance to re-engage with education in an adult learning environment offering flexible delivery and tailored support.

The demand for post-school qualifications is also growing. The Jobs and Skills Report 2025 forecasts that more than 90 per cent of new jobs created by 2035 will require post-school education or training. This includes university degrees and vocational education and training (VET).

TAFE NSW Managing Director, Chloe Read said the HSC and tertiary preparation courses give students an alternative and trusted route to further study.

“We are proud to provide a flexible pathway that works for students who have the potential to thrive outside a traditional school environment,” she said.

“With higher-skilled jobs being the engine room of Australia’s future workforce, these courses ensure students are not left behind. TAFE NSW helps them build confidence, gain the knowledge and skills they need, and take their next step toward university or employment.”

For 18-year-old Allegra Riskalla of Cremorne, the support and flexibility of the program proved pivotal. She is preparing to start a Bachelor of Medical Science at the University of Technology Sydney after completing her HSC over two years through TAFE NSW St Leonards. She hopes to pursue a career in psychiatry.

When COVID disrupted her schooling and wellbeing, Allegra said the pathway reignited her love of learning.

“I loved it,” she said. “The teachers really got to know you, there was no judgement, and the atmosphere was completely different. Everyone was there because they wanted to be, making it much easier to learn.”

Frenchs Forest local Quinn Street faced a different challenge. Chronic illness resulted in her needing to leave school in Year 11, and she was left wondering how she would complete her studies. Through the TPC, Quinn was able to continue studying while managing her health. She placed second in the state.

“Something as simple as being able to manage my day without asking permission made a huge difference,” she said. “I felt trusted and respected, which I never really felt in high school.”

Quinn achieved an ATAR-equivalent score above 99 and is set to begin a Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences at the University of Sydney.

“There were times when I honestly didn’t think I would finish,” she said. “So, to do as well as I did feels incredibly rewarding.”

Katoomba student Scarlett Young was midway through Year 12 at a private school when a change in family circumstances forced her to withdraw, leaving her uncertain about how to complete her education.

“Finding the TPC felt like a lifeline,” she said. “The learning was more in-depth, and the teachers genuinely took the time to get to know us.”

Scarlett accepted an offer to study a Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology/Medical Science) at UTS, but has deferred until 2027 to take a working holiday in Scotland.

Ms Read said stories like these demonstrate TAFE NSW’s role in widening access to tertiary education.

“Some students need a second chance, others need flexibility, and some simply thrive in an adult learning environment,” she said. “TAFE NSW exists to meet learners where they are, and the outcomes speak for themselves.”

Media contact: Sarah James, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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