A new report recommends a significant overhaul of careers education for young people across England. Former minister Alan Milburn proposes introducing youth career education to primary school children as young as four. Furthermore, he suggests making work experience mandatory for teenagers aged 14 to 16. These bold recommendations aim to tackle the persistent issue of young people not in education, employment, or training (Neet).
Milburn argues that early exposure is crucial. Children should begin learning about different professions at the start of primary school. Employers could visit classrooms, offering insights and ‘taster sessions’ to these young pupils. He stated this approach would “open their eyes” to future possibilities.
For older students, specifically Key Stage 4 pupils aged 14 to 16, real-world experience is essential. Milburn insists work placements must become mandatory. Currently, many students struggle to secure such opportunities. Approximately four in ten teenagers in this age group receive no work experience at all.
Moreover, the report highlights an existing disparity. Some students are left to find their own placements, often relying on parental networks. This creates an uneven playing field. The latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) data indicates 981,000 16-24 year olds in the UK were Neet between April and June 2026, underscoring the urgency of these proposals.
Teaching unions have responded positively to the concept of earlier career exposure. Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the NAHT, welcomes efforts to connect school learning with future prospects. He states that “the earlier young people can begin to make connections… the better.” Similarly, Pepe Di’Iasio of ASCL believes classroom visits can truly “enlighten [children’s] motivation.”
However, union leaders also voiced significant concerns. Primary schools already face immense pressure, Whiteman warns. Any new mandatory requirements would necessitate careful consideration of existing curriculum elements. He stressed the need to clarify what might “give way” to accommodate these changes.
Public opinion on the proposals remains divided. Emma, a grandmother from Kirklees, believes primary school children are too young for career talks. She argues for letting children “be little kids” for longer. By contrast, fellow parent Zoe thinks early learning is beneficial, stating “everyone has to do” work eventually.
These recommendations specifically target England’s education system. Education policy is devolved across the UK. While England currently offers careers guidance from age 11, work experience is not statutory. Notably, Scotland and Wales already mandate career-based learning for pupils as young as three. The government’s stated vision includes guaranteeing two weeks’ work experience for every young person in England.
The final instalment of Alan Milburn’s government-commissioned review is due for publication this autumn. This report examines the issue of young people not in education, employment or training. Its findings could significantly reshape the future of youth career education in England.
