02 May 2026
School curriculum lacks focus on preparing young people for work
DWP commissioned YouGov to survey over 1,000 primary and secondary school teachers in March 2026, seeking their views on young people accessing education, training and work, as well as the focus of the school curriculum.
A majority (66%) felt that young people were less well prepared for work than they were five years ago.
74% of respondents said they felt the curriculum was too focused on passing exams and 73% felt it lacked an emphasis on developing a broader range of work-related preparation and skills.
A similar number felt the curriculum could be adapted to address this without reducing the standards. There was almost universal (98%) support for schools to provide careers advice and guidance, more vocational pathways up to age 16 and alternatives for those who struggle with the curriculum.
Read the DWP’s interim report. The final report will be available in July.
A majority (66%) felt that young people were less well prepared for work than they were five years ago.
74% of respondents said they felt the curriculum was too focused on passing exams and 73% felt it lacked an emphasis on developing a broader range of work-related preparation and skills.
A similar number felt the curriculum could be adapted to address this without reducing the standards. There was almost universal (98%) support for schools to provide careers advice and guidance, more vocational pathways up to age 16 and alternatives for those who struggle with the curriculum.
Read the DWP’s interim report. The final report will be available in July.
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