Schools to adapt teaching to local jobs market

Schools throughout England will be directed to modify their curricula to align with the requirements of local businesses, as part of a broader strategy to address youth unemployment. This initiative, championed by Andy Burnham, aims to make technical and vocational skills as highly regarded as academic qualifications. The policy is scheduled to be implemented from September 2028.

Greater Manchester Baccalaureate Model

The proposed changes are partly modelled on the Greater Manchester baccalaureate, or MBacc, which was introduced by Burnham during his tenure as the region’s mayor. This programme, launched in September 2024, enables schools to offer technical courses and work experience tailored to key sectors within the regional economy. These include financial services, engineering, manufacturing, construction, and the green economy, alongside routes into public services like health, social care, education, and transport. The MBacc initially involved a pilot in 10 schools.

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Addressing Youth Unemployment

This policy shift is intended to help tackle the growing issue of young people not being in education, employment, or training (NEET). A report published in May by Alan Milburn, a former Labour cabinet minister, indicated that one million young people across the UK are currently NEET, with numbers increasing. The report cited factors such as a changing job market, inequality, and health issues, alongside a perceived lack of focus on employability skills and non-academic qualifications. Milburn has welcomed the proposals, stating they are a significant step in the right direction and consistent with his review's findings.

Burnham stated that for too long, the education system has overemphasised academic routes, potentially disadvantaging those seeking technical qualifications. He expressed a desire for an educational framework that values technical skills equally with academic achievements, providing all young people with a clear pathway in life. He remarked, “I want an education system based on parity between academic and technical which gives all young people a clear path in life. From today, Britain will value the hard hat every bit as much as the graduation cap.”

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Devolution and Future Implementation

The initiative involves devolving more control over education for the 14-16 age group to local areas. Mayors and local leaders are expected to collaborate with schools, colleges, and employers to develop technical training programmes aligned with local job opportunities. The plan also includes prioritised funding for vocational qualifications and guidance for Ofsted to recognise their value alongside traditional academic credentials. Some regional mayors have reportedly faced challenges in securing greater curriculum control from the Department for Education.