Prime Minister Andy Burnham was today (28 July) unveiling a major shake-up of the education system, launching new technical education routes designed to put vocational learning on a par with the traditional academic path.

The pathways will give 14-year-olds earlier access to technical skills, work experience and links with local employers.

From age 14 (Year 10), students will have the chance to combine core academic subjects – including English, maths and science - with a technical education that’s linked to the jobs available in their area. They will be able to spend time with employers and gain real-world experience. 

Burnham said regional mayors, local leaders, schools, colleges and employers will work together to shape the new technical education pathways, which can be tailored around local industries and growth sectors.

To support this, the government will prioritise funding towards technical education and practical routes into work. It will also change the way school performance is measured. Inspectors will recognise the schools that provide high quality technical education and support young people to develop the skills, experience and confidence employers want.

The plans, part of the PM’s plans to tackle youth unemployment, are due to be rolled out from September 2028.

Prime minister, Andy Burnham, said: “For too long in this country, students have been told that you must take the academic path to do well and to be respected. The whole school system has been built around it and that has let down young people seeking technical qualifications.

“I want an education system based on parity between academic and technical which gives all young people a clear path in life. From today, Britain will value the hard hat every bit as much as the graduation cap.

“In a fundamental change to the education system, we will introduce new technical education pathways from 14 – prestigious routes that will give students the chance to combine the core academic subjects with the skills, technical knowledge and experience they need to get quality, well-paid jobs where they live. My message to young people is this - whether you choose construction, coding or classics, or maths, manufacturing or mechanics, you’ll get the skills you need and be given the respect you deserve.”

More than a million 16 to 24-year-olds are currently not in education, employment or training.