The Department meets the learning needs of children, young people and adults, and addresses training needs in industry.

The public education and training system in New South Wales provides pre-school education, the compulsory years of schooling (from Kindergarten to Year 10), and senior secondary education leading to the award of the NSW Higher School Certificate (in Years 11 and 12).

It also provides TAFE NSW courses, adult and community education courses, migrant English programs, post-secondary art courses and advice to the government on high education.

In addition, the Department coordinates all public education and training services in New South Wales and strongly promotes lifelong learning.

It aims to provide students with a smooth transition from school to work or further study, and from post-compulsory education and training to work or further study.