The youth labour market has undergone significant changes over the last two decades, with a growing number of young people postponing entry into the workforce to pursue higher education and a sharp decline in opportunities that combine earning and learning. 

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The lack of a viable alternative to academic routes has left many young people entering the workforce without critical skills, such as communications, teamwork and problem-solving. Our report finds only one in four employers recruiting young people think they are well-prepared for the workplace. 

Changing face of the youth labour market provides an analysis of key statistical data and public policy context, and proposes recommendations to UK Government to address the collapse in apprenticeships, unlock more apprenticeship opportunities to young people and create a strong vocational pathway into the labour market.

Find out more in our report.

Changing face of the youth labour market | Report

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