The review has made 26 proposals to provide a youth training system that will incorporate structured work-based learning, including an employment-based pathway, and provide a new professional and technical award at level 2, the curriculum content of which will be informed by employers in order to better match demand and supply. It will be aimed at those who leave school at 16 and will focus on professional and technical training at level 2.
Anna Lo MLA said: “I welcome the Employment and Learning Minister’s continued commitment to provide training to young people. Providing training, especially for young people, is a key economic driver.
“It is important that we provide opportunities for education and training at all levels, and to ensure that employers have access to the skilled employees, especially young people, that they require.
“The Minister’s proposals for a new youth training system will provide the foundation to support the lifelong learning of young people and help them progress on the employment ladder. I would like to particularly welcome the proposal that for the first time, youth training will be available to all young people aged 16-24 who require training at level 2, regardless of their employment or education status.
“The Minister’s proposals will ensure that no young person is left behind.”
ENDS