YouthEmployment News & Analysis
2 articles
Market Mood
New Technical Education Routes for Pupils Age 14 in England
The UK government will offer new technical education routes for pupils starting at age 14, aiming to link courses to local jobs and industries. This initiative follows reports that over one million young people in the UK are currently not in education, employment, or training, the highest level in over 12 years. Prime Minister Andy Burnham supports the reforms, which are expected to address youth unemployment. The government anticipates the new pathways will begin in some areas by 2028, focusing on combining core academic subjects with technical education relevant to local employment opportunities.
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Employer NI Contributions for Under-25s Should Be Cut, MPs Urge
The Work and Pensions Committee has recommended cutting employer National Insurance (NI) contributions for all under-25s to enhance job opportunities. Currently, over one million individuals aged 16 to 24 are not in education, employment, or training (NEET). In April 2022, the employer NI rate increased from 13.8% to 15%, while the threshold for contributions decreased from £9,100 to £5,000. The committee highlighted the impact on sectors like retail and hospitality that typically employ young workers, stating a unified strategy is required to address youth employment challenges.
Read More: Employer NI Contributions for Under-25s Should Be Cut, MPs Urge