Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I leave school or training as soon as I have my 17th birthday?
A: No, you have to stay in school or training or work (or in a combo) until the end of the year in which you turn 17.Back to top
Q: Can I still have a part-time job even though I am at school or college?
A: Yes, it's fine to have a part-time job so long as you are still going to school or training on a full-time basis.Back to top
Q: I don't have any parents or a carer, so who signs my forms?
A: Speak with your school principal or contact us so we can confirm you are completely independent.Back to top
Q: If I live in the country, will my local school be able offer a suitable program?
A: If your school previously only went up to Year 10 it will offer a limited program for students who for some reason cannot attend a senior high school (with Years 11 and 12). This program may involve distance learning or structured workplace learning. Back to top
Q: Isn't this new law a bit unfair for 17 year olds?
A: We know from research that young people who leave school too early to take up employment are often unemployed by their 20s and then find it difficult to find work. Further study after finishing school means that over a lifetime you will be more employable, more mobile, earn more money and enjoy greater satisfaction in your career.

WA isn't the only place to be raising the age for compulsory education or training. Many countries are appreciating the benefits to both the community and the individual student of receiving training or education for a longer period. The UK is currently working on increasing its 'leaving age' to 18, and in Canada under 18 year olds cannot get a driving licence without proof that they are in education or training.Back to top
Q: What do I have to do if I don't want to stay at school full-time?
A: Your parents/carer must fill in a form and give it to your school (the one you are just about to leave) or, for a quicker response, send it direct to:

Participation Unit
Department of Education and Training
151 Royal Street
EAST PERTH WA 6004

This form is important so we know you are actually doing something, as the law demands. Visit the forms page to find out which form you need and then you can download it.Back to top
Q: What happens if I decide to stay on at school after I turn 16 or 17 but then change my mind?
A: If you decide to change direction you must choose another option and get that approved by filling out the necessary form. Your parents/carers must let us know if your first option doesn't work out.Back to top
Q: What is a Participation Coordinator?
A: Located throughout the State they are there to provide lots of help and support if you are unsure of what to do in the year you turn 16 or 17. They can design a special program just for you and have lots of information about training and employment in the area where you live.Back to top
Q: What should I do if I am confused about all the choices on offer?
A: There is lots of useful information on this website but if you still can't decide which would be the best option for you speak with the career adviser at school or make an appointment with one of our friendly Participation Coordinators.Back to top
Q: Why can't I just do nothing?
A: Changes in the law mean that from 1 January 2008 everyone who turns 16 or 17 in that year must choose one of the authorised options on offer.Back to top
Q: Why do we need to fill in forms at all? (Forms A, B or C)
A: The Curriculum Council (a WA Government body) is required by law to keep a database of all students' participation and achievement up to Year 12. If the Curriculum Council doesn't know what you are doing it can only assume you are doing nothing. This is breaking the law and action will be taken.Back to top