Raising the participation age
In 2013 all young people in England will be required to continue in education or training until they're 17. By 2015, it will be compulsory for learners to remain in education or training until they're 18. This means that learners who began year 7 in September 2008 will be the first to continue in education or training to 17. Learners who began year 7 in September 2009 will have to continue in education or training until they are 18.
The change in participation age does not necessarily mean learners will have to stay in school. Young people will be able to choose from a number of different options including:
- full-time education - such as in school or in college
- work-based learning - such as an apprenticeship
- part-time education or training (if employed, self-employed or volunteering for more than 20 hours a week)
It is important that all young people have the support they need to access opportunities, including good quality information, advice and guidance, on their options. Additional support will also be given to young people facing potential barriers. Further information is available in the supporting young people section.
"Moving Up", a magazine for current year 7s, is available online at teachernet and explains the options that will be available to this year group as they progress through secondary school.
This page was last updated on 3 October 2009
