CGLLEN Board members and staff attended a planning day in Halls Gap yesterday.

Facilitated by CEO, David Wheaton, the day included a review of existing objectives and achievements to date and establishing strategic priorities for the next three years.

”Today was an opportunity for the board and staff to take stock, and look to the future.” Mr Wheaton said.

The group considered a range of issues including the Network's success in increasing the uptake of apprenticeships across the region and contributing to an increase in the year 12 retention rate of more than 6% over the past three years.

Mr Wheaton said that the Network was pleased with the increased participation in vocational training but was concerned about the large number of students from the region who receive university offers but don't take them up.

”While a large proportion are saying, “after VCE, I'm just not ready for more study right now” there are a growing numbers of young people who choose not to take up university places because of their economic circumstances.”

"Addressing this issue will be a focus of our work over the next three years." Mr Wheaton said.

The results of the planning day will form the basis of a report for consideration at the next CGLLEN Board meeting with a view to adopting a new Strategic Plan for 2006-2008 by the end of the year.