A UK government review on worklessness is considering recommendations that primary schools help identify which pupils are most at risk of becoming not in education, employment or training (NEET) after the age of 16. The proposal is attributed to Alan Milburn, a former health secretary who is reported to say the earliest indicators of later NEET status can be seen well before secondary school. He argues that warning signs may be observable from pre-school onward, suggesting earlier support or intervention could reduce later unemployment or disengagement from education and work.
The reported plan would shift attention to early detection within mainstream education settings rather than waiting until pupils are close to leaving compulsory schooling. The review’s recommendations are described as part of an effort to address long-term worklessness, including the transition from education to employment or training.
The articles provided do not include details on how risk would be assessed, what criteria would be used, or how any identified children would be supported.
