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England plans technical pathways from age 14 to tackle youth joblessness
The government links proposed courses, starting in Year 10, to local industries and said new pathways could be running in some areas by 2028.
Secondary school pupils in England would be able to study subjects such as manufacturing and AI alongside core academic learning under reforms outlined by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, with the options available from Year 10, according to BBC Business. The plan is intended to connect education with local industries and provide a clearer path into work.
The government said its proposals respond to a youth employment crisis, citing data showing more than one million young people across the UK are not in education, employment or training, the highest level in more than 12 years.
Burnham described the move as a fundamental change to the education system, arguing that in an age of AI, practical and technical skills are more valuable than ever. He said pupils would continue studying core maths, English, and science, but would have the option to combine these with technical education, including work experience and links to local employers.
The Association of School and College Leaders said it welcomed the goal of preventing young people from falling out of education or work at 16, while also warning about capacity as schools face tight budgets and additional demands around special educational needs. BBC Business reports the government expects the new pathways to be up and running in some areas by 2028, and that Ofsted will change how it measures performance to include technical education.