This year, more Tasmanians are staying in school for longer, and next year we hope to increase that again.

When Tasmanians stay in school longer they get better qualifications, and in turn have the best chance at getting a job and living a fulfilling life.

Today, principals from the six rural and regional high schools that extended to Year 11 and 12 this year met with principals from the schools that will extend next year to share ideas and experiences.

As with any change, it is important to learn from our experiences and make improvements.

I was heartened to today hear principals sharing stories of students who might not have continued their education that are now on their way to completing senior secondary education.

I was encouraged to hear the passion from the principals who will be giving their students a chance to better themselves through study beyond Year 10 next year.

I was inspired to speak with students of Campbell Town District High School about their hopes and dreams beyond Year 10, when their school extends next year.

Above all, I am hopeful. This was a reminder about how important it is that we continue to give young Tasmanians every opportunity to continue their education beyond Year 10.

The early results of the extension program are very positive with enrolments in Year 11 and 12 at the six extension schools increasing, on average, 38 per cent this year.

The 38 per cent increase is very significant and clearly demonstrates our policy is working; it is sending a clear message that school doesn’t end at Year 10.

This is why it is so important that for the first time we are properly funding Year 11 and 12 in our rural and regional high schools. This $45.5 million initiative will see 21 high schools extend to Year 12 by 2018.

The first schools to extend, this year, are Scottsdale High School, Smithton High School, Huonville High School and Dover District High Schools (in partnership), and St Helens and St Marys District High Schools (in partnership).

Next year’s schools include Campbell Town District High School, Mountain Heights District School, New Norfolk and Glenora District High Schools (in partnership), Rosebery District High School and Tasman District High School.

Cressy District High School will begin offering senior secondary courses in 2017 to allow time to further prepare supporting infrastructure at the school. Other 2017 extension schools will be announced next year.
Jeremy Rockliff, Minister for Education and Training