Many people have their reasons for wanting to leave education; assuming you are over the legal age for compulsory education then it is completely up to you if you decide to continue with school or not. You need to weigh up how the decision might affect you in later life, whether you want to go on to University or if spending time in the workplace would be more beneficial to you. If you do decide to leave though, it is advised that you inform the school principal and the best way of doing this is in writing. There are a few things you need to remember when writing a letter to inform of your decision:
- Put the date at the top of the page.
- Make sure you address the letter to the correct person, by name and in a formal fashion, "Dear Mr Ferguson", for example.
- State clearly your full reasons for wanting to leave, whatever they may be. This can strengthen your case for wanting to finish your schooling and may help the school and teachers to understand your decision.
- It is probably best not to lay blame at anyone's door for wanting to leave, this is your chance to thank the school for the education you have received to date. There is little point using your letter to vent frustration.
- It's best not to burn your bridges in your letter. In years to come you may decide to return in order to re-take your exams.
- In order to make the letter official you need to sign off properly. Make sure you print and sign your name and use "Yours Sincerely" at the end of your statement.
