The effect of rurality on the aspirations of students in rural government secondary schools in Victoria, Australia: The perspectives of students.

This research examines the aspirations of rural students in Victoria from the point of view of the students themselves. The many effects that rurality has on aspirations are considered, focusing on the students themselves, their families, friends and schools, as well as their connection to the community and rural isolation. Data was collected from 363 surveys and fourteen focus groups conducted in rural and metropolitan secondary schools in Victoria. The research shows that rurality has a profound effect on the aspirations of many rural students, and suggestions for future action are provided.