Further Education for the Future: What is the Best Direction for Policy?

John Hayes MP, Minister of State for Further Education and Lifelong Learning, addressed Politeia on 25th June 2012, 6.30-7.30

Too many young people  drop out of school after 16 without training for the world of work or finding a job.  Despite the emphases of successive governments on policy to improve further education and training, the figure today is around 16 per cent of 16-24 year olds.  Yet at the same time many vacancies exist  in the labour market because applicants do not have the skills needed to do the job.

What policy is needed for the future? What system is best to ensure that education and training is of the highest standard and equips young people for the world of work and for continuing professional advancement? How can this country ensure that the vacancies for skilled and motivated employees across a range of industries and business are filled? Are the right structures in place for providing rigorous and focussed courses or is a change of direction needed?

John Hayes addressed these issues in his speech for Politeia on 25th June.