AS THE school year progresses, it is an exciting time for students at the Australian Industry Trade College (AITC).
Whether they are preparing for their first work experience (WEX) placements from Year 10, enhancing their skills through pre-employment training in Year 11, or transitioning into full-time work in Year 12, each stage represents significant growth in maturity and confidence.
However, with this growth, some students begin to overestimate their readiness for the workforce and question the necessity of completing Year 12 and obtaining their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).
It’s crucial to understand why finishing Year 12 is a vital step for their future success.
A JOURNEY TO SUCCESS:
A recent article in the Australian Financial Review highlighted data aligning with AITC’s 17 years of experience. The completion rates of apprenticeships significantly increase with higher levels of school education:
- Year 10 or younger 30% chance of completing an apprenticeship.
- Year 11 – 50% chance of completing an apprenticeship.
- Year 12 – 76% chance of completing an apprenticeship.
These statistics clearly demonstrate that obtaining a QCE substantially boosts the likelihood of completing an apprenticeship.
This correlation is not surprising to employers like Justin Morgan-Moore, Director of MM Constructions and an AITC graduate.
Justin states: “I won’t ever take an apprentice until they have finished Year 12 anymore. If you are willing to quit on school because it is too hard, you will most likely quit on me and the company when work gets hard.”
THE ROLE OF NEUROPLASTICITY IN EDUCATION
Studies have shown that the brain’s ability to change and adapt, known as neuroplasticity, is critical during the educational journey.
Completing Year 12 helps young people develop resilience, problem-solving skills, and the capacity to handle challenging situations – traits that are invaluable in the workplace.
EMPLOYER INSIGHTS ON YEAR 12 GRADUATES
Feedback from employers in our Marine Academy further underscores the importance of completing Year 12.
One employer noted a stark difference in maturity between apprentices who graduated Year 12 and those who left school in Year 10.
