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An early school leaver's (1.1.E.05) EPP must include education or training except when the early school leaver:
Each of these reasons is explained more fully in the rest of this topic.
Early school leavers who wish to enrol in education or training part way through the academic year, but who are unable to get a place, can be exempted. This exemption extends to young people who have been refused a place, if there is no other education or training place available within a reasonable distance (1.1.R.30).
Example: Refusal of a place on the grounds of violent, disruptive or criminal behaviour.
Act Reference: SSAct section 544DA(5)(b)(i) There is no place on the course for the person
Early school leavers who are not suited to or qualified for available education or training places can be exempted on the basis that no appropriate place is available.
Note: Personal choice not to remain in education or training is not sufficient reason for exemption.
Example: Academic, cultural or other personal reasons.
Act Reference: SSAct section 544DA(5)(b)(ii) The person is not qualified to undertake the course
Early school leavers who physically do not have access to an approved locally accessible course of education or training can be exempted.
If mainstream education is no longer an option for the early school leaver, then alternative approved education and training, such as distance education courses, should be considered.
Example: Early school leavers who have no public or private transport available to them, should consider distance education courses.
Act Reference: SSAct section 544DA(5)(a) There is no logically accessible approved course...
The exemption applies until a place is available, usually within 13 weeks. The exemption can be extended, but must be reviewed regularly after 13 weeks. Extension of the exemption should only occur where there is no available place in which the early school leaver is able to enrol, or where the early school leaver cannot meet the requirements of an available course.
Example: Exemption given until the start of the next semester or academic year.
An EPP is required. The nature of activities approved will depend on individual circumstances, but must include activities that will assist the early school leaver work towards gaining a year 12 or equivalent qualification (certificate ll). Early school leavers are unable to satisfy the activity test by undertaking compulsory job search activities.
Act Reference: SSAct section 544DA Youth Allowance Employment Pathway Plans - early school leavers
Policy reference: SS Guide 1.1.A.40 Activity test (NSA, YA (job seekers)),3.2.9 Activity Testing for NSA/YA Job Seekers - Suitable Activities, 3.2.4.60 Inability to Secure an Appropriate Place Exemption for Under 18s, 3.2.4 YA Exemption from Full-time Education/Training for Under 18s
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Last reviewed: 7 February 2011
