Question to the Department for Education:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have, following their response to the Curriculum and Assessment Review Final Report, to ensure that young people who are not in education, employment, or training, including those who have not reached the required standard in literacy and numeracy, are covered by the post-sixteen provisions.

Progress in English and maths at level 2 is vital for 16–19-year-olds to access opportunities in education, work, and life.

The Post-16 Skills and Education Strategy White Paper sets out reforms to qualifications at levels 3 and 2. At level 3, a new vocational pathway, V Levels, will sit alongside A levels and T Levels. At level 2, two pathways will be introduced: Further Study (progression to level 3) and Occupational (skilled employment). Students can combine these with English and maths qualifications.

Local authorities must support young people to participate in education or training, as per the Education and Skills Act 2008. Through the Post-16 Education and Skills White Paper, the department has committed to help schools, further education providers and local authorities track and share data to prevent young people from becoming not in education, employment or training.