AoC responds to NFER childhood skills development report

David Hughes, chief executive of the Association of Colleges, said: “This report shows that more thinking is needed about howe the experience of education can be made to work for every child, whatever their circumstances. The Curriculum and Assessment Review launched by the Department for Education (DfE) will help with this, because it has an explicit ambition of trying to design a system that meets the needs of all children and young people up to age 19.

The evidence here suggests that curriculum has a big part to play in that, but there is a clear need to also improve participation in wider enrichment opportunities for all young people to develop their skills. The report also underscores the importance of early action to engage and motivate children so that they are not left behind and to help them access future employment and training opportunities.

AoC looks forward to working with policymakers, educators, and other stakeholders to help implement these recommendations and make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people.”