|
||||||||||
|
In today's Queen's Speech (November 6th, 2007), plans were laid out for the new Education and Skills Bill, which aims to raise to 18 the minimum age at which young people can leave education or training. The Bill also provides new rights to skills training for adults. (6 Nov 2007)
In response, GTC Chief Executive Keith Bartley says, "The GTC welcomes the Government's commitment to young people staying in education and training until the age of 18, although we must be wary of the assumption that greater participation in education and training automatically results in higher achievement and skills levels.
'We also believe that the proposal of sanctions against those who do not participate will be counter-productive, and will do little to motivate those who would not otherwise undertake post-16 education and training. Instead, there needs to be a focus on developing incentives to participate, as well as education opportunities and support measures which are tailored to the individual's needs.
'It is vital that Government secures the support of teachers, employers, parents and higher and further education organisations for the initiative - this will be crucial in motivating young people to become involved. Schools and further education providers will also need considerable time to develop collaborative relationships and create professional learning opportunities for teachers, lecturers and all those involved in delivering a wider range of courses in a wider range of settings.'
