Today’s interim report from Alan Milburn, on young people and work, is a concerning read
The report warns that the NEET rate for young people could exceed 16% within 5 years. This is deeply worrying.
NEET stands for 'not in education, employment or training'.
At the same time, it is encouraging to see the review examine issues that EngineeringUK highlighted in our evidence. These include:
- a more balanced and inclusive curriculum and enrichment offer to better engage all young people, and reduce unequal access to opportunities
- stronger preparation for work through high-quality, equitable careers guidance and meaningful work experience, helping all young people build the skills that employers need
- action to address the decline in apprenticeships and other entry-level routes, which narrows pathways into work and makes this transition more challenging for young people
The report recognises that, alongside health-related factors, wider structural challenges across the whole system must be addressed. We welcome the focus on how education, health, welfare and employers should work together to support young people to flourish.
For engineering and technology, where demand for skills across Industrial Strategy growth sectors is strong, this is important. Clear and inclusive pathways into these careers are needed so that more young people from all backgrounds can access these opportunities.
We also welcome the report’s optimism about young people and the way their interests, passions and talents might be harnessed.
We will review the findings in detail, including how they align with recent policy developments in post-16 pathways and qualifications reform and work experience.
We look forward to engaging further as the inquiry moves into the solutions phase.
This report highlights the complex barriers facing young people today. We need an education and skills system that is inclusive by design, with strong careers guidance and meaningful work experience. Too many young people still face barriers to technical and vocational routes, particularly as entry-level pathways like apprenticeships decline. Government, education providers and employers must work together to ensure these routes remain open and accessible to all.
— Beth Elgood, Communications Director, EngineeringUK
