§ Mr. GibbTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills pursuant to his answer of 3 February 2003,Official Report, column 98W, on vocational training, if he will set out his plans for the programme to ensure two weeks of work experience with employers or other organisations is available for all pupils in Key Stage 4. [96764]
§ Mr. Ivan LewisOver 95 per cent. of school pupils already undertake work experience placements in their last years of compulsory schooling to develop the skills and attitudes essential for the world of work. About 75 per cent. of these placements are for two weeks or longer. The Department provides £25 million a year, via the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), for school/ business links activities. Around £10 million goes towards the costs of the work experience programme, 355W which aims to ensure that all Key Stage 4 pupils can undertake at least two weeks' high quality work experience. In addition, a range of guidance and support is provided by the Department and the LSC to help local partners meet this objective. Independent evaluations of work experience show that placements are generally satisfactory and well-received by schools, pupils and employers.