It's a staggering statistic but the latest Productivity Commission report shows Tasmania's Year 12 attainment rates (students achieving their qualification) are the second-lowest in the country, after the Northern Territory, at just 53.1 per cent.
The state's retention rate – the percentage of Year 10 students going on to Year 12 – is also lower than every other jurisdiction except the NT.
Tasmanian students have to stay in school until they finish Year 12 or turn 18, unless they're in an apprenticeship or get a Certificate III from a registered training organisation.
Traditionally public high schools ended at Year 10, forcing teenagers to attend a new college in a population centre for Years 11 and 12.
And that means travel, often for long distances, using the state's struggling public transport system.
Economist Saul Eslake is part of a group of Tasmanians pushing for better education outcomes. He believes that system creates a barrier for some students.
Ellen Coulter reports.
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