Education Select Committee Inquiry

As part of our ongoing parliamentary engagement on skills reform, the CBI has submitted evidence to the Education Select Committee, considering the future of post-16 qualifications.

With reforms to Level 3 qualifications ongoing and the Post-16 Education and Skills Bill making its way through parliament, the committee is exploring whether proposed changes go far enough to ensure young people are prepared for the world of work.

Within our submission, the CBI argue:

• Boosting progression to Level 3 and beyond will be vital to prevent widening skills gaps in the economy.

Businesses are increasingly demanding people with intermediate and higher skills. A Level equivalent T Levels can help confront skills gaps and offer a clearer technical route to a good career. But funding decisions for alternative qualifications should avoid narrowing opportunities for young people to progress.

• As technology transforms the world of work, both how and what young people learn must continue to adapt.

Post-16 qualifications must adapt to the impact of economic transformation on skills demand. Approval and revision processes for new and existing qualifications must therefore be smooth and swift. T Level industry placements should also remain in lockstep with industry practice and capacity

• Young people should be prepared and enabled to build skills throughout their careers.

Readying young people for lifelong learning must be part of preparation for the world of work. Increasing the flexibility of post-16 qualifications will remove barriers to continued education and training. Levy reform can leverage greater business investment in young people’s skills.

Read our full submission.

The CBI will continue working to ensure ongoing skills reform responds to the needs of business, learners, and the economy.

Speak to Aaron Revel to share your feedback, or for any other queries.