A TRAINING organisation which has centres across the North-East, is calling for 16 year olds to be given more information about alternative forms of education and training.

This year’s 16 year olds are the first group compelled to stay in education until the age of 18 – and many are unsure about what to do next.

Nacro, which has centres in Darlington, Stockton, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool and Newcastle, says more needs to be done to make young people aware about the courses available that will help them become skilled up and work ready.

Nacro believes that with just over 13 per cent of 16-18 year olds in England not in education, employment or training (NEET) raising the school leaving age will only result in a better qualified labour market if young people find a learning environment that meets their needs as well as the needs of local employers.

Josh Coleman, education principal at Nacro, said: “We want to get a strong message out to young people that raising the participation age doesn’t just mean staying at school until they are 18. There are other alternatives available for those young people who feel let down and believe that school didn’t work for them.

“Young people who make the wrong education choices at 16 could end up effectively being warehoused for the next two years and then branded as truants because they have dropped out.”

Nacro’s Education Centres in the North-East run vocational courses that provide young people with the skills and qualifications required to find a job.

Julie Coulton, Nacro’s centre manager in Darlington and Stockton, said: “Nacro allows young people to be who they want to be and we have one central aim that is to get them work ready. When things get tough, we stick with our learners, and give them the support they need to overcome barriers and get ahead.

“At Nacro our courses are both enjoyable and practical and our bursaries mean that students get paid while they study. We also cover students’ travel costs and provide a free meal every day.”

Nacro’s courses offer a chance for young people up to the age of 24 (whatever grades they left school with) to learn in a way that suits them. Nacro’s tutors support young people in choosing the life they want by focusing on learner’s outcomes and tailoring their approach to each individual to ensure that every learner achieves the best possible results.

Carlyn, 19, said: “I came to Nacro after moving to the Darlington area with my mum and didn’t know anyone at all. I found staff at the centre very supportive, helpful and a good listening ear and I was made to feel welcome by other learners in the centre and I made new friends very quickly.

“My confidence levels increased and I became more motivated. I achieved Level 1 in Maths, Entry 3 in ICT and a range of qualifications to help me to progress onto a Level 3 Childcare course at New College Durham. I have also recently achieved a Level 3 qualification to be a Cub Leader at the 9th Cub and Scout pack in Darlington which I enjoy immensely”

Nacro’s Darlington and Stockton centres offer 14–18 year olds a wide range of courses including: building and construction; business skills and customer service; English, maths and IT; employment skills; hair and beauty and hospitality and catering.