Balls names Young People's Learning Agency chief

He will lead the body along with former college principal, Les Walton, who has been appointed chair of the YPLA committee.

Both appointments depend on the smooth passage of the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Bill, but if all goes to plan, the YPLA will support local authorities to commission education and training for 16- to 19-year-olds from April 2010.

The body will also be responsible for funding, supporting and challenging open academies.

Balls described Lauener and Walton as "strong leaders".

He said: "I am confident that Les and Peter will ensure that the YPLA's strategies, values and standards of performance reflect the needs of all young people in each area of the country."

Lauener is currently director of local transformation at the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF), where he is responsible for supporting and challenging council's children's services.

After a career in college leadership, Walton founded an education consultancy called Northern Education, which is chaired by Estelle Morris.

The consultancy is currently considering sponsoring an academy in the North of England.

Lauener said: "I look forward to working closely with local authorities as well as with academies, other schools, colleges and independent training providers so that together we can improve opportunities for all our young people".

Walton said he was looking forward to leading the YPLA Committee through its forthcoming transition period.

Kim Bromley-Derry,  president of the Association of Directors of Children's Services, said:"Peter Lauener will bring many years of experience and a full understanding of the Every Child Matters agenda and the work of local authorities to his new role at the YPLA.  His assistance in developing a full strategic offer of learning opportunities for 14 to 19 year olds in every area of the country will be greatly appreciated."