New choices for 14 to 19 year-olds

Suffolk is in the middle of a learning revolution to meet the challenges of a fast-changing world. Between now and 2013, the education system for 14-19 year olds will be transformed to equip young people with the skills they need for life and work in a global marketplace.

The changes include the introduction of the new secondary curriculum and a wider range of learning pathways for young people, who will be continuing in education and training for longer when the participation age rises to 17 in 2013 and to 18 in 2015.

The idea is to give all 14-19 year-olds the chance to choose different styles of learning in the setting that best suits their needs, interests and learning styles.

Suffolk County Council is leading this huge transformation by working closely with schools, colleges, universities, training providers and employers.

By 2013, young people under the age of 19 will have a choice of four main pathways for gaining the skills and qualifications they need to succeed. These include: updated GCSEs/A-levels, new Diplomas, more Apprenticeships, and personalised Foundation Learning. There will also be a new Employment with Training route for post-16s in work.

The choice is enormous and every learner will be helped to make the right choices at the ages of 14, 16 and 18 through high quality information, advice and guidance.

Welcoming the reforms Dr Peter Funnell Vice President of the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce said:

"Suffolk Chamber is passionate in its support of educational achievement and improving skills development and is delighted to be working with Suffolk County Council to ensure that the views and contribution of business is fully embedded in these changes.

“Through this kind of collaborative working we can ensure that our young people realise their potential and that the skills and talent needs of our economy are addressed."                                                                        

The new Diplomas are designed to give students valuable skills for life by combining hands-on experience with learning in the classroom. They are available at three levels and can be linked with BTECs, GCSEs, and A Levels.

Young people in Suffolk have a growing choice of new Diploma courses through the collaboration of schools, colleges and training providers. From September 2010, 14 Diploma subjects will be on offer in construction, media, engineering, health, environment, information technology, beauty, sport, catering, business, and tourism.

All young people in Suffolk have access to a Youth and Connexions personal adviser in their school, college or in the community, who can offer impartial careers advice to help them make the right choices. Future4Me – the local area prospectus for education and training can be seen online at www.future4me.org.uk.