§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what proposals he has to introduce a new course for non-academic youngsters aged over 17 years; how many children would be involved; when he expects to publish his proposals; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. William SheltonThe Government intend to publish their proposals for a new national qualification at 17-plus within the next few weeks. The aim is to improve the vocational relevance of courses for the increasing number of young people who choose to remain in full time education for an extra year instead of seeking employment at the earliest opportunity. Initially, about 80,000 young people are expected to take advantage of the new qualification.