Formal education is not currently fit for the modern world
Across the Nations represented on this forum, it was found that the formal education system is too restrictive to accommodate the social needs of young people today.
Education
Education is instrumental for positive progression.
Why it matters
Young people are the future, and our policy must reflect that by demonstrating their importance to society and protecting their right to learn. A positive education experience with no financial, institutional or geographical limit to opportunities can be paramount to erasing the barriers young people will face later in life.
It is important to note that education is not simply a formal structure but can take shapes in many forms from anywhere a young person deems their ‘safe space’. The lessons learned within informal education systems are crucial for personal and social development alongside valuable life skills that are taught from lived experience.
The issues
The curriculum is old. Formal education must be ever evolving to accommodate the development of young people in an ever-evolving world.
Formal education is not currently fit for the modern world
Education should not come at the cost of financial burdens
As the cost-of-living crisis increases the costs of daily use items, it has also increased the already high cost of school uniforms, particularly in secondary schools. While schemes exist to ease financial burdens, such as Free School Meals and Unform Grants, not everyone who needs financial aid in these areas receives it, as it is a means tested system.
Accessibility is equity
Young people with medical conditions or Special Educational Needs find their additional needs can inhibit their ability to attend, participate in and benefit from schooling.
Physical restrictions such as lack of access to public transport, unreliable technology and internet access, and inaccessible campus’ can prohibit success in education
Many young people find they are pressured to achieve highly in formal education settings, which negatively impacts their mental health, and the adequate support is not here for them to protect their wellbeing
What we want decision makers to do
- Decision makers must stop scaring young people into believing formal education is their only path to a successful future. Knowledge is not the only thing to be gained in education settings, and a spotlight must be shone on the development of life and work skills which set a young person up for their future.
- Informal routes, such as youthwork and social projects can support young people in building necessary skills to begin their journey into work or in finding the support that works for them. We want decision makers to recognise the success of different life paths and help to provide more opportunities for young people, while promoting those that already exist.
Accessibility can take many forms, including:
- Ramps, lifts, disabled bathrooms, and wider doorways can help those with physical disabilities to physically access education, without restricting the use of mobility aids
- Available transport and digital support will help those from rural areas
- Safe spaces and tailored support plans will help SEN pupils
Action plan
Targeted financial support
Targeted financial support would benefit all pupils, particularly in rural or low socio-economic areas. We suggest the development of schemes to provide art supplies, Home Economics equipment and ingredients, and sports equipment to ease the financial burden on families.
Learn from, and develop, existing schemes
Another scheme we would like to see developed across the Nations, and is existing in some areas to great success, is Free School Meals for all pupils, with available provision during school holidays.
Amplify the voices of young people
Formal education is an institution which is largely targeted at children and young people. Therefore, we believe it is paramount that young people’s voices are at the heart of key decisions. We think all schools should be required and encouraged to invite pupils into their decision-making bodies and encourage independent thinking and develop the related skills.
Small steps can make a big difference.
Contact
For more information contact: holly@youthaction.org
Funded by:
Supported by:
