Post-16 participation hits record level
Mon 23 Jun 2008
19/06/2008
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The number of people aged 16-18 taking part in education, training and work has reached record levels. Figures released by the Department for Children, Schools and Families revealed at the end of 2007, 78 per cent were participating in activities that will help them succeed in life. Mr Ed Balls, secretary of state, said the figures "show we are making good progress to ensuring that all young people have the opportunity to fulfill their potential and contribute to our economy". According to the department, the proportion of 16-18 year olds participating in Work Based Learning (WBL) and apprenticeships has remained stable. Its figures showed more than half a million (528,000) 17 year-olds were in education or WBL. The government hopes to extend its participation range - it said by 2015 all young people aged up to 18 will stay involved in its initiatives. Labour statistics showed the number of unemployed people rose by 38,000 during the last quarter but fell 34,000 in the last 12 months.
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