Youth Voice Census 2021: Insights From Pearson

Youth Employment UK’s annual Youth Voice Census Report is now available. Key findings for 2021 tell a story of mismatch and disconnect from young people in the UK.

We would like to thank co-sponsors Pearson for their support in helping us to make the collation of this vital data possible. Only when we know what young people face can we all cohesively work together to overcome barriers.

Pearson’s Acting SVP of BTEC and Apprenticeships, Claire Rogers:

“It goes without saying that the enormous disruption of the last eighteen months has had a huge impact on young people. We have been so impressed throughout the pandemic by the amazing resilience and commitment we have seen from young learners – not least those that completed A levels, GCSEs and BTECs this summer, and were able to move on to their next steps in education or employment.

That’s why Pearson is proud to support the Youth Voice Census this year. It provides hugely valuable insights into how young people view education, employment and training, helping us to shape the resources and support we are able to offer young people to support them in their career paths.

It comes as no surprise that the results of the census show just how difficult the impact of covid-19 has been on those in education, with both physical limitations like lacking a quiet study place or having their own device to work from, and the impact on mental health which has also affected their ability to study.

A less well documented impact has been the disruption to careers advice support. The census shows us how much young people value careers guidance and that there is a huge appetite for opportunities like work experience programmes and career fairs. With young people most affected by unemployment due to the pandemic, it is more important than ever to make sure that careers guidance is available, and that young people receive the support they need to choose the right options for them.

A large percentage of young people reported that vocational routes were never discussed with them. The pandemic shone a spotlight on our key workers, many of whom entered their careers through vocational education. It’s vital that young people hear about all the different options available to them and get the support they need to apply for apprenticeships and vocational pathways.

There will doubtless be more challenges ahead in the coming months, but as we start to re-open and return to a ‘new normal’, we in the education sector can make sure we listen and use the findings of the Youth Voice Census as a useful tool to help us provide the best support for our young people”.