South West Local Learning and Employment Network (LLEN) has compiled the book, titled Why Year 12?, which features 24 stories of the different pathways local people have taken to successful careers. 

South West LLEN chief executive officer Toni Jenkins said the book was aimed at young people in late primary and early secondary school and their families. 

She said the booklet was part of an effort to change the culture early. 

“It highlights there are numbers of different ways you can achieve year 12 or equivalent qualifications,” Ms Jenkins said. 

“Thinking about future pathways at a young age is important and we’re trying to encourage families to value education. It is never too early to start thinking about the future and what a young person can do to influence the pathway they take. 

“We hope the stories in the book will inspire people to understand that completing year 12 or equivalent is increasingly important in influencing what options are available after school. 

“Year 12 is the launching pad.” 

The book is supported by Deakin University, South West TAFE, Rotary International and Westvic staffing solutions and was compiled by Steve Pogonowski. 

It will be launched on September 12 with activities at Deakin University for 130 grade 5 and 6 pupils from Warrnambool East Primary School.

The Great South Coast Group reports that only 57 per cent of young people in the region are finishing year 12 or equivalent, one of the worst figures in the state. 

Attainment figures for boys are even more dire for boys, with just 44 percent of boys in Glenelg, 46 percent in Corangamite and 48 per cent in Moyne. 

The group, which comprises the six councils in the south-west, has listed year 12 attainment as a priority area of focus and action and has formed a working party to explore a whole-of-community approach to boosting year 12 attainment rates.