Although differences were not large, leavers tended to have less knowledge about training programs or places to look for jobs. Even if they did know about other job search methods, they were less likely to use them. Most leavers and graduates indicated that they would not receive job search assistance from school counsellors or teachers; this was especially true for male leavers (79%). As well, low levels of literacy and numeracy limited the job opportunities of leavers more than graduates.

Although leavers are in greater need of training in the labour force, the jobs they get are much less likely to offer training opportunities. Most leavers and graduates either planned to seek further education or training or were interested in acquiring new skills. School leavers were less likely to know how to get proper training for the careers they were interested in. Moreover, school leavers lacked clear career objectives and, thus, appeared less motivated and focused than graduates.