Partnership working boosts young people’s prospects

The latest figures from the Department for Education show that Havering has been outperforming both the London and national averages, placing the borough in the top categories in the key areas.

The borough has successfully reduced the number of 16-18 year olds not in education, employment or training (NEET) to 3.1 percent against 5.5 percent nationally and 4.8 percent across London.

Havering delivered 94.8 percent of 16 –17 year olds participating in education and training against the national average of 92.5 percent and 94.4 percent across the region.

Councillor Robert Benham, Havering’s Cabinet member for Education, Children and Families, attributed the borough’s success to working in partnership with local education providers.

Training providers, such as Prospects, have helped to reduce the risk of NEET learners by hosting events to support young people and by tracking their success.

Councillor Benham said:

“Our education team has worked tirelessly to meet the individual needs of children between the ages of 16 and 18. Our partnership with Prospects has helped to boost the opportunities for young people and provided them with valuable information, advice, guidance and support as they navigate their transition into adulthood.”

Working with Prospects, the Council’s education and skills team has delivered the annual Moving On event, which helps students decide on their next move after leaving school, as well as National Apprenticeship Week activities.

The events bring together post 16 and higher education providers, alongside public sector employers, to provide opportunity for local young people.