Youth Training Scheme

HC Deb 03 February 1986 vol 91 cc32-3W

Mr. Steel

asked the Paymaster General what criteria are used to assess the extent of the success of the youth training scheme.

Mr. Trippier

The aims of YTS are to give young people a better start in work and adult life and to provide a better trained young work force which is more versatile, adaptable and productive. The criteria used to evaluate the success of the scheme are related to these aims and involve the assessment of the effectiveness of the training programmes, covering such issues as the quality of the training provided and the meeting of specific requirements.

The latest results of the Manpower Services Commission's monitoring show that by the end of October 1985 91 per cent. of the 1985–86 YTS schemes which had then been assessed were regarded as generally effective. The MSC also carries out a regular follow-up survey of trainees, about three months after they have left YTS, to find out what they are then doing and what they think of the training they received. Between April and July 1985 61 per cent. of those who left YTS obtained employment. Eighty per cent. of trainees who responded to the follow-up inquiry have said they found their time on YTS useful.