Nearly 20% of Australian students do not complete Year 12, according to the latest data. While the proportion of Year 10 students progressing to Year 12 has risen slightly to 81.5%, figures have remained largely stable since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Decades of research show that schools can take specific actions from Year 7 onward to help students stay until graduation. Here are three evidence-based strategies.
Why Finishing School Matters
Completing Year 12 is linked to better employment prospects, higher lifetime earnings, and improved health and wellbeing. It also keeps the widest range of post-school options open, including vocational training, apprenticeships, university, and direct entry into work.
Why Students Leave Early
Reasons for leaving before Year 12 are varied and often complex. Some students face health challenges, difficult life circumstances, or pursue opportunities like apprenticeships that align with their goals. However, for many, early departure stems from experiences at school itself—disengagement, falling behind, or losing connection. Schools are best placed to influence these factors.
1. Effective Teaching Practices
Teaching approaches that help students learn effectively are crucial. Students need to feel they can succeed and see progress to stay engaged. When learning feels out of reach, disengagement follows. Research shows that effective teaching in Year 7 predicts school completion six years later. Explicit instruction—where teachers model new concepts, guide students through examples, and gradually transfer responsibility—is particularly effective. Two key strategies: reducing difficulty during initial learning by breaking concepts into manageable steps, and providing well-organised practice opportunities with specific feedback.
2. Classroom Management
Orderly, predictable, and positive classrooms allow students to focus on learning rather than disruption. Strong classroom management structures the environment and interactions so learning can occur. A recent study found students with strong classroom management were up to six times more likely to have high motivation, engagement, and resilience. Effective strategies include establishing and consistently maintaining clear rules and routines, and recognising and building on students' strengths rather than focusing solely on problems.
3. Student-Teacher Relationships
Warm, respectful relationships between teachers and students are vital. They not only support retention directly but also underpin effective teaching and classroom management. When students feel known and supported, they are more willing to engage. Research shows that the more positive relationships a student has with teachers, the greater their academic engagement—a key driver of retention. Every teacher can make a difference, and for some students, one strong bond can tip the balance toward staying engaged. Schools should create conditions where every student can build genuine, positive connections with teachers, which involves knowing students as individuals and showing interest in their lives beyond the classroom.
