This year I have spent time visiting schools and communities to discuss with principals, careers and transition advisors, local EPP team members, students and employers, what makes the EPP so special. I have heard loud and clear that the program provides tangible offerings to students that raise awareness, create opportunities, and broaden aspirations and perspectives on countless career pathways.

These results would not be possible without your ongoing support and commitment to the successful delivery of the EPP in your schools, businesses and through the dedication of the teams in your school communities.

In 2023 the EPP has provided:

• Support and mentoring for 1,594 students undertaking a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship (SBAT). This represents an 106% increase from February to November 2023.
  
• Supported over 1,000 students from low-SES backgrounds who are disengaged in their learning to re-engage.
  
• Over 5,700 student enrolments in ‘test and try’ vocational courses delivered by TAFE NSW, increasing students’ sense of achievement and career decision making.
  
• 761 students completed a pre-Apprenticeship or pre-Traineeship nationally recognised VET credential, supporting them to reach their post school destination goals.
  
• 28 industry specific immersion programs supporting student engagement in local industry and raising awareness of the career pathways that exist in their local regions.

In addition to the many opportunities provided for students in the EPP we have hosted three conferences in Rooty Hill, Wollongong and Ballina this year. I am extremely proud of these events having heard firsthand the challenges and rewards being delivered by the program. It was important for me to consider these challenges for the EPP to continue to improve. It was also my absolute pleasure to announce three additional Principal Champions for the program in Tim Lloyd, Principal of Plumpton High School, Michelle Brooks, Principal of Warilla High School and Scott Dinham, Principal of Grafton High School.

Another highlight for 2023, were the many opportunities to connect with our staff having visited schools in Newcastle, North Coast, New England and North West regions. These presented additional opportunities to hear what works and where further work is required. I look forward to working with our team and schools to tackle these challenges in 2024.

As always please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or any member of the EPP team should you have any questions.

Wishing you all a well-deserved rest at the end of the year.