The 4-year investment from the NSW Government expands the program into 3 additional regions and 24 public schools.

Currently operating in 183 high schools across 11 regions, the expansion will reach an extra 7,500 students each year. From next year, it brings the total number of participating schools to 207 statewide.

Regional rollout across NSW

The expansion benefits 24 public schools across 4 key areas:

• 7 schools in the Central West and Orana
• 7 schools in the Camden region
• 8 schools in southern NSW
• 2 schools in South-west Sydney

The EPP helps students connect with expert guidance, hands-on learning in real industry settings, and access to vocational education and training (VET) pathways, school-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SBATs), work experience, and employment.

Surge in vocational training enrolments

The expansion builds on significant growth in school-based vocational learning. Commencing enrolments in NSW public schools surged 36.5%, growing from 29,005 students in 2024 to 39,605 in 2025.

The investment forms part of the NSW Government's $3.46 billion investment in skills, training, and TAFE NSW in the 2026–27 Budget. This work focuses on rebuilding vocational education and delivering the skilled pipeline needed for housing, major infrastructure, and clean energy projects.

Building pathways into key industries

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan highlighted the importance of broadening post-school options.

"Not every student wants to follow the same path after school, and that’s exactly why the Educational Pathways Program is so important in setting up our kids for future success," Minister Whan said.

"Whether it's a school-based apprenticeship, a traineeship, TAFE, or another vocational pathway, we want young people to know the opportunities are there and help them take that next step. Those pathways can lead to rewarding, secure jobs in key industries like construction, clean energy, agriculture and manufacturing that our economy depends on."

The program continues to give young people, regardless of location, the confidence and support to pursue rewarding careers close to home while building the skilled workforce NSW needs.