HC Deb 11 June 1984 vol 61 cc348-9W
Mr. Baldry

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what surveys will take place of the results of the first year of the youth training scheme, including the standard of training offered and the eventual destination of employees.

Mr. Peter Morrison

In addition to the day-to-day monitoring of youth training scheme programmes which is conducted by the Manpower Services Commission, a programme of work to evaluate the youth training scheme is being undertaken.

Among the more important evaluation exercises planned are:

  1. (a) regular surveys of young people which collect information of their destinations when they leave the youth training scheme and seek their views about its value to them;
  2. (b) annual surveys of the costs and benefits of the youth training scheme to the providers of training programmes.

In addition, wider studies of different labour markets and of young people are planned which will be designated to compare the experience of those participating on the scheme with others.

Mr. Baldry

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what steps are being taken to promote the youth training scheme as the main route to employment for 16 and 17-year-old unemployed school leavers.

Mr. Peter Morrison

The Manpower Services Commission is currently running a national press and television advertising campaign to bring to the attention of young people the benefits of joining the scheme. In addition, the careers service and careers teachers continue to play an active and important part in bringing the Scheme to the attention of youngsters locally.

My Ministerial collagues and I take every opportunity to publicise the advantages of participating in the scheme.

Mr. Baldry

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what information Her Majesty's Government have as to the percentage of youth training scheme trainees who live at home with their parents.

Mr. Peter Morrison

Precise information about the number of young people on the youth training scheme who live at home with their parents is not available.

Mr. Baldry

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what steps are being taken to ensure that industry will give credit to youth training scheme trainees for competences acquired during the youth training scheme year.

Mr. Peter Morrison

All youth training scheme trainees receive a certificate at the end of their training listing their attainments. In addition, discussions are being held with major examining, validating and industrial bodies on the development of standards which would be agreed and recognised nationally.