Careers and skills inquiry 2016-17

The APPG conducted an inquiry into how well schools prepare children for their future, with a particular focus on their readiness for the workforce. The full report can be found here – Preparing for the future inquiry report.

How well do schools prepare children for their future?

The APPG for Education’s inquiry aimed to examine how well our schools are preparing young people for their future, with a particular focus on their readiness for the workforce.

The inquiry sought written evidence to the following questions:

1. What should our schools be focusing on in order to prepare young people for the future?
2. Should schools play a role in developing skills, or should subject knowledge be prioritised?
3. Who should be responsible for ensuring that young people develop soft, financial and entrepreneurial skills?
4. Do education providers have the resources to prepare young people for the workforce?
5. To help the APPG create a practical set of approaches and recommendations:
   1. What example are there of schools and colleges preparing young people well for the workforce?
   2. What examples are there of employer-led initiatives that have had an impact?

In addition, we held roundtable discussions on:

1. The balance between soft skills and subject knowledge
2. The quality and effectiveness of careers advice and guidance
3. The STEM skills gap