New research confirms the extent to which young people are significantly influenced by their educational and career ‘inheritance’. Whilst aspiration plays an important role in shaping post-school education and career choices, many young people living in regional and outer urban communities face personal, practical and financial challenges translating these aspirations into reality.
Published by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) Geographical and place dimensions of post-school participation in education and work, examines how aspiration and engagement in education and training is influenced by where a young person lives.
Dr Craig Fowler, Managing Director NCVER said “This research highlights the importance of designing policy that gives closer consideration to individuals needs within their regional identity to ensure local communities get education and training that suits their circumstance.”
“Where you live plays a powerful part in shaping your career aspirations. Young people are influenced by family, friends and social networks. Young men often follow in their father’s footsteps, whereas young women are more likely to leave an area to pursue their dreams” he said.
“A process of ‘disruption’ is important for young people to encounter possibilities beyond their immediate surroundings, but this needs to be backed up with information, inspiration and facilitation to ensure they get access to the education and training they need” says lead author Sue Webb.
Many of those interviewed, spoke about the importance of their local region and community, as well as acceptable ‘travel to study’ distances. Other practical and financial factors such as lack of transport, limited access to education providers and cost of travel are also cited as barriers to accessing education and training.
The report provides a number of suggestions for policy and practice aimed at increasing educational engagement amongst young people living in regional and outer urban communities, such as the facilitation of shared education resources between providers to maximise curriculum opportunities.
Copies of Geographical and place dimensions of post-school participation in education and work are available from www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2776.html
Media contact: Rebecca Farrell, Media and Communications Officer, 08 8230 8418 or 0407 608 409.