WIREDGOV

Blog posted by: Michael Lemin, Policy and Research Manager, Monday 19 March 2018.

Earlier this month, the Skills Minister, Anne Milton, called on FE providers to report schools that flout their new legal obligation to give training organisations access and opportunities to speak to pupils about vocational routes.

The Baker Clause legislation is now in place to require Leader of local authority-maintained schools and academies to ensure there is an opportunity for a “range of education and training providers” to access pupils aged 13 – 18 and make them aware of the technical options available to them after they leave school. This means that it’s now compulsory for all schools to open their doors to training providers who want to showcase their offer to potential learners.

The legislation is welcome. Careers advice has not been independent since 2010, when a duty was put upon schools to provide advice to their pupils. Critics have long argued that schools are not independent (as they have an interest in pupils staying on at sixth form) and poorly placed to discuss vocational options.

We currently have one of the highest proportion of young people in a cohort going to university in the world. Yet we still lag behind on UK productivity, and have significant skills gaps in some sectors. This has to change.

The minister’s latest words are a strong indication that the legislation will be enforced. We hope that by opening the door, providers will be able to build strong, mutually beneficial relationships with schools.

It’s a real opportunity to ensure that every learner is well informed to be able to choose the right path for them, at a time when it is more vital than ever that young people make the right choice about their post-16 options. I would urge every provider to be pro-active in engaging with schools to help give young people the information they deserve.

Are you currently able to access school age pupils in your local area? We’d love to hear about your experience. Let us know by emailing news@ncfe.org.uk.