Helping youngsters reach their potential

Nov 17 2009 by Nicola Juncar, The Journal

THE North East will be one of the first areas in the country to trial new ways of reducing the number of "Neets".

Newcastle has been chosen as one of only 11 locations to look at tackling the issue of young people not in education, employment or training, known as Neets.

The trial will help pave the way for the raising of the participation age across England, where young people will stay on in education or training until the age of 17 from 2013, and the age of 18 from 2015.

This legislation will help give all young people in Newcastle, and across England, the chance to achieve their full potential and tackle the number who are currently not in education or training.

The announcement coincides with the first generation of 11-year-olds starting secondary school in Newcastle this term who will all stay on in learning or training until 18.

Alan Carrick, lead specialist practitioner for alternative provision at Newcastle City Council, said: “It is more important than ever that we find ways to engage all young people in education or training which will be vital for their future success.

“This trial outlines our commitment to increasing the aspirations of, and opportunities for, young people in order to reduce the number of young people in Newcastle not in education, employment or training.”

“Working closely with schools and colleges, careers advisers and employers, we will ensure that the young people in Newcastle are given every chance to succeed.”