At a time when NSW is confronting serious skills shortages and rising levels of student disengagement, the Educational Pathways Program (EPP) stands out as one of the Minns Government’s most important and impactful education initiatives. It is a program grounded in evidence, driven by equity, and proving—through hard data—that when we invest in vocational pathways early, students thrive.
A major strength of the EPP is its reach across the state. Of the 183 participating schools, 76—an impressive 42%—are in regional, rural or remote communities. For too long, students outside metropolitan areas have faced limited access to vocational options, mentors, or industry connections. The EPP is directly addressing this imbalance, ensuring that regional young people have the same opportunities to engage in meaningful career pathways as their city counterparts.
The results speak for themselves. Schools in the program have recorded a 20% increase in students enrolled in school-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SBATs), giving young people a defined pathway into secure work and further training. Engagement with the TAFE NSW-delivered Start Your Future initiative has skyrocketed—up 119% between 2022 and 2024—a sign that students are excited by hands-on learning and real-world skills development when it’s offered to them early and consistently.
What makes these outcomes especially compelling is that they’re backed by independent evaluation. The 2024 review by the UNSW Social Policy Research Centre found high levels of satisfaction among schools, students, and families. It confirmed what educators have long argued: when students have access to credible vocational options, participation lifts across VET subjects, SBATs, and transitions into post-school employment. In other words, the EPP is doing exactly what it was designed to do—keeping students engaged and giving them genuine, supported pathways into the workforce.
The Minns Labor Government’s August 2025 decision to provide ongoing funding for schools offering the full suite of EPP initiatives is not only welcome—it is essential. It reflects a clear, long-term commitment to the NSW Skills Plan and to rebuilding a strong, vibrant vocational education and training sector after years of neglect. Just as importantly, it sends a powerful message to students: vocational education is not a fallback option. It is a respected, valued, and vital part of our state’s future.
The success of the Educational Pathways Program marks a decisive cultural shift in NSW education. We are finally moving beyond the outdated “university or bust” mentality and recognising that excellence comes in many forms. The EPP celebrates those diverse strengths and gives every young person—regardless of postcode, background or academic inclination—the chance to build a future they can be proud of.
The results so far are impressive. The vision behind the program is strong. And the state is better off because of it. I would like to see the program expanded.
Denise McHugh is an experienced educator in Tamworth. She is Chair of the NSW ALP Education and Skills Committee.
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