Last week, the Government published a call for evidence for its wide-ranging curriculum and assessment review led by Professor Becky Francis and a panel of experts. This review is an 8 week consultation that welcomes responses from all those interested and affected by the review: young people and their parents, teachers, lecturers, education leaders, subject experts, researchers, employers and others.
We are incredibly pleased to hear that the evidence review is taking a ground-up approach and listening to first-hand experiences. It is important that any policy change or reform is fit for those who will use them and most importantly those who need them. In our 2024 Youth Voice Census report, we heard that only a third of young people (34%) agree that school supported them sufficiently to develop the skills they need for the future and increasingly young people in education have changed or are unsure about their education and career plans.
In addition, we know that a third of young people do not achieve five GCSEs at grade 4 or above. A disproportionate number are from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. There are subsequently fewer clear and well-recognised routes available to these young people at 16-19, negatively impacting their future education and life changes. Level 3+ qualifications are not attainable by all young people, and personal circumstances and protected characteristics such as SEND can greatly affect educational experiences. It is important to value those who cannot achieve at this level and those who require adjustments equally within the system.
This data points to the curriculum not working for everyone and therefore we welcome the current review. Education is key for leveling up, social mobility, skills building, personal development and career preparation.
As the secretariat of the APPG for Youth Employment, we led on a commission exploring pathways for young people and in particular the announcements on Level 2 and 3 qualifications by the previous government. This included the Young Person’s Entitlement which ensures there are clear pathways at every level, to develop young people’s knowledge and skills and support their transition into their next steps. This commission exemplified the importance of flexibility and ensuring there is an offer of choice, enrichment, and the core curriculum.
After years of change, young people are feeling more uncertain than ever before about what their future holds. Solutions have to be rooted in what works for young people without leaving anyone behind. We hope that through the diverse responses collated in the review, the subsequent policies will build an education and skills system that unites curriculum, vocational training, enrichment, and careers policy to prepare all young people for their next steps.
Youth Employment UK will be submitting a response to the inquiry through a consultation with young people and our Employer Members.
