Andy Burnham has vowed to reform the education system to give school students more access to technical education, as he attempts to promote alternative options to university.
The UK’s new prime minister announced a plan to create new education routes for students aged 14 and upwards, allowing them to study “high-quality” technical subjects alongside core academic ones, like English, maths and science.
Technical courses being discussed by the government include engineering, healthcare and digital technology.
The government also said it would move away from a “one-size-fits-all” education system “designed in Whitehall”, instead supporting regional mayors, local leaders, schools, colleges and employers to shape education plans linked to industries and skills needs in their areas.
This could include advanced manufacturing, AI, digital and technology, clean energy, life sciences, construction, health and care, or the creative industries, “depending on local strengths and where the jobs of the future are being created”, the government said.
