While The NYA supports the overall aims of the government, it is concerned that young people should not be compelled to remain in formal education or training against their wishes, and should not automatically be criminalised if they choose to drop out. The NYA hopes to play a full and active part in the debates around this legislation, to ensure the best possible outcome for young people.
Commenting on the announcement in the Queen's Speech, NYA chief executive Fiona Blacke said: "We are firmly of the view that the aim of the proposals - that of continuing participation - is laudable and should be supported. But learning will never be guaranteed through compulsory attendance and we are very concerned about the threat of criminal sanctions for non-attendees, as this would punish the very young people whose needs are not being met by the current system. Young people who do not thrive in the formal education system do so because the system has failed the young person, not the other way round, so why punish the individual?"
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