2025 student survey
We asked students across NSW and ACT what our support has meant for their learning, their wellbeing and their sense of what's possible. Here's what they told us.
100%
Every single student improved.
Every student we surveyed reported their learning improved in at least one area. Not most. Every one.
At a glance
91%
rated our support "quite" or "extremely" useful
83%
feel more supported since joining our program
78%
feel equipped with learning essentials
74%
gained access to opportunities they didn't have before
How students describe the difference
Learning and wellbeing
Engagement and personal growth
K-12 vs Tertiary
Different stages. Consistent growth.
100%
rated support "quite" or "extremely" useful
83%
rated it "extremely" useful
School-age students report especially strong day-to-day gains from practical support: the resources, essentials and academic tools that make learning possible.
88%
rated support "quite" or "extremely" useful
52%
rated it "extremely" useful
Tertiary students more often highlight reduced stress, better access to learning essentials and the stability that makes study possible, especially alongside work or family.
In their words
Behind every percentage is a real student
A Start in Life has helped me so much since I was in Year 2. I was able to graduate school and pursue my dreams of going to uni to become a teacher.
The support I have received from A Start in Life has helped tremendously with my education and provided me with equipment that I would have had to struggle to purchase otherwise.
Your continued support has made a meaningful difference for me this year, and I'm very grateful for the encouragement and care you show to students.
The support that I have received from A Start in Life gives me the freedom to do what I love and the confidence that someone always has my back.
With the support of A Start in Life, I can focus on my studies, pursue meaningful placements, and invest in my learning with confidence and gratitude.
With the support of A Start in Life, I felt brave, stepped out of my comfort zone, built confidence, and made connections for my future career.
Having A Start in Life in my corner has built strong foundations for my confidence and resilience, giving me peace of mind while balancing study and finances.
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100%
of students reported improvement in at least one area of their learning
91%
rated our support as "quite" or "extremely" useful
83%
feel more supported since joining our program
74%
gained access to opportunities they didn't have before
The headline finding
Every single student improved.
100% of surveyed students reported their learning improved in at least one area. Not most. Every one.
How students describe the difference
Feel more supported
83%
Equipped with learning essentials
78%
Greater access to opportunities
74%
Improved learning outcomes
70%
Less stressed or overwhelmed
61%
Improved overall wellbeing
43%
Engagement and personal development
Made new friends
74%
Stepped outside comfort zone
65%
Kept going when it challenged me
57%
Made connections for future pathways
52%
Feel more supported
100%
Improved confidence
83%
Improved overall wellbeing
67%
Kept going when challenged
83%
Stepped outside comfort zone
83%
Feel more supported
76%
Improved confidence
47%
Improved overall wellbeing
35%
Kept going when challenged
47%
Stepped outside comfort zone
59%
