Disadvantaged students turning to private VET providers

A new report shows that, against popular perceptions, private Vocational Education and Training (VET) providers are catering for the education needs of increasing numbers of disadvantaged early school-leavers to further their education.

The role of private Vocational Education and Training providers in Australia has come under significant political and media scrutiny over the last few years. In a new report commissioned by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), researchers from the Brotherhood of St Lawrence Research and Policy Centre, Victoria University and The University of Melbourne found a willingness and commitment among many private VET providers to help young early school leaver learners overcome barriers to participating in education and to complete useful qualifications.

In the article, More at-risk young people are turning to private VET providers, published in The Conversation, Dr Kira Clarke and Professor Kitty te Riele draw on the findings of the report to outline the challenges private VET providers face along with recommendations to better meet them. With over 140,000 early school-leavers undertaking a VET qualification across Australia, it is vital to address these concerns. It is also important to note the strengths that private providers can bring to supporting these young people, especially their strong and up-to-date connections with industry. Read the full article on The Conversation’s website now.

If you are interested in finding out more about this research, NCVER is hosting a free webinar on Thursday, 29 September at 2pm AEST, where lead researcher George Myconos from the Brotherhood of St Laurence will be presenting the findings.