Education is regarded by many as the key to a successful adulthood. Research certainly
confirms that higher levels of education, notably completing secondary education but particularly obtaining
a tertiary qualification, significantly enhance employment and earning. In South Africa, more
than most countries, educational persistence and employment are major challenges among youth. Within
the context of universal youth vulnerability, this paper shows that young people leaving residential
care are particularly vulnerable in relation to educational persistence and employment. Social exclusion
theory is used to shed explanatory light on this vulnerability, and to assist in formulating recommendations
for social welfare and educational practitioners to facilitate both educational persistence and social
inclusion among youth leaving care.