The Liberal Government is committed to creating a job ready generation of young Tasmanians.
That means improving school retention.
I am pleased to see that since the introduction of four year terms there has been an increase in attendance across all year levels, which is equivalent to every student attending on average one more day of school than they did the previous year.
This is an encouraging sign, but there is a lot more to be done.
A major challenge is changing the perception that high school ends at year 10.
To get a good job you need to have a good education, which means completing year 12.
Under the Liberal Government high schools in Tasmania are being gradually extended to year 12.
Our plan is aimed at improving year 12 completion rates by providing choice for students at danger of dropping out post year 10. These are the students who for one reason or another are not making it to college.
Twenty one high schools in rural and regional areas will be extended to Year 12 by 2018, with all high schools extended by the end of 2024.
We will provide a total of $45.5 million over four years towards extending these initial high schools, this will allow for the employment of up to 105 new teachers and $6 million for capital works.
The Liberal Government is committed to ensuring we equip young Tasmanians with the educational outcomes and skills to take their place in the workforce.
More Media Releases from Jeremy Rockliff
More Media Releases from the Minister for Education and Training