UCU: Raising the age of post-compulsory education

Motion

Motion text: FE Sector Conference recognises the benefits of continuing education post-16 and the positive impact this has on progressing to employment or pursuing further education. However, UCU opposes coercion and the threat of criminal/civil action to implement this.

UCU believes successful learning from 16 rests on it being voluntary. Compulsion will have a negative impact on staff and students.

Participation beyond 16 should be based on:

1. ) A motivating curriculum for entry to employment/further study;
2. ) Independent impartial careers, information, advice and guidance services;
3. ) A statutory basis for young people in employment to paid time off for study;
4. ) Expanded financial support for young people continuing learning;
5. ) New resources to support continuing participation in learning;
6. ) An entitlement not a requirement to level 3 qualification to 30.
Furthermore, Conference remains unconvinced that the government's planned changes for the 14-19 curriculum and key stage 3 curriculum will help the situation.