Business backing for raised school leaving age
Business leaders are welcoming plans to raise the school leaving age to 18, which are expected to be outlined in the Queen's Speech today (Tuesday).
Extra apprenticeships and new diplomas will be introduced for young people who are less academic. The leaving age will be increased to 18 by 2015.
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said the move would equip young people with better skills for the workplace.
A spokesman said:
"It is unsustainable for 200,000 16-18-year-olds to be neither in work or education with few prospects of finding future employment."The Government has clearly identified the problem and hopefully these proposals will ensure that young people develop the skills and motivation to succeed by the age of 18."
