Enquiry finds flaws in 14-19 diplomas

Thursday, 16 October 2008

Diplomas offer "weak vocational learning opportunities" and will do little to reduce the number of unemployed young people, an investigation of 14-19 education has concluded.

Geoff Hayward

The Engaging Youth Enquiry, published by the charities Nuffield Foundation and Rathbone yesterday (15 October), found young people who are disengaged from education were more enthusiastic about learning a trade and earning money than semi-academic, semi-vocational courses.

The study, part of Nuffield's six-year review of 14-19 education, also reported that young people not in education, employment or training were often unable to take apprenticeships since they lacked the minimum academic attainment required.

Geoff Hayward, director of the Nuffield 14-19 Review, said: "We should take this opportunity to engage with employers on how best to prepare young people to compete in the labour market so they do not become a forgotten group of unemployed and unemployable adults."

A consultation on the enquiry will run until 31 March 2009.

- www.cypnow.co.uk/doc.