Why the lack of focus on unemployed 16 and 17 year olds?
Part of the explanation must lie in the policy presumption, reinforced by last year’s Education and Skills Act, that young people in England should continue in education and training until they are 18. This ambitious reform programme is commonly (and misleadingly) referred to as ‘raising the school leaving age’. The main thrust of policy development so far has been on broadening the learning offer – with new diplomas, more apprenticeships and a foundation learning tier – and overhauling the planning and delivery of 14–19 education and training. There have also been a variety of pilots focused on re-engaging young people in learning – learning agreements, activity agreements and entry to learning. There is a great deal to be welcomed but again, a critical element remains missing: the employment pathway. Let us not forget that employment will remain an option for 16 and 17 year olds when the Education and Skills Act comes into force, providing it involves a minimum level of accredited tr
