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Alan Milburn proposes mandatory work placements for 14-16-year-olds

By Drooid · Oct 1, 2026, 2:59 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Alan Milburn proposes mandatory work-experience placements for 14- to 16-year-old students.
He also calls for primary schools to teach children about work and host employer talks.
ONS data show 981,000 people aged 16-24 were NEET between April and June 2026.
Teaching unions warn primary schools will face significant pressure and need support for new programmes.

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Story summary

Alan Milburn proposes mandatory work-experience placements for 14- to 16-year-old students.
He also calls for primary schools to teach children about work and host employer talks.
ONS data show 981,000 people aged 16-24 were NEET between April and June 2026.
Teaching unions warn primary schools will face significant pressure and need support for new programmes.