§ Mr. KeetchTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if participants in the New Deal for 18 to 24 year olds will be able to study for Access Course at NVQ level 3; and if he will make a statement. [34421]
§ Mr. Andrew SmithThe Full-Time Education and Training option of the New Deal is primarily aimed at giving a second chance to gain qualifications for those young people who are not already qualified to NVQ Level 2 or equivalent. However, approval for an Access to Higher Education course can be given where it is clear that completion of the course is the best way to enhance a young person's employability. The course must form part of a realistic action plan leading to sustained employment, and must offer the opportunity for the young person to gain transferable skills such as Key Skills.