More young people in education, training or work in Newport
Posted on Wednesday 19th August 2020
Even more young people in Newport are recorded as being in education, employment or training following a determined and coordinated effort by the council and its partners.
Eight years ago, just under five per cent of 16-year-olds in the city were not in education, employment or training.
However, by 2016 the numbers had fallen to a record low of 1.7 per cent and since then the figures have steadily improved. Last year's data took the council to sixth in Wales for its performance in this area and the latest figures for 2019 show that it has done even better.
Less than one per cent (0.9 per cent) of the year 11 age group was not in education, employment or training, raising the council to second in the all-Wales table and well above the Welsh average.
Councillor Jane Mudd, Leader of Newport City Council and Cardiff Capital Region cabinet member for learning, skills and talent, said: "I'm delighted with these figures because they represent improved life chances for all those young people who might otherwise have slipped through the net.
"I'm proud of our staff and partner agencies who have worked so hard to ensure our young people are given the opportunity to realise their full potential and that will not only benefit them but also the city."
Councillor Gail Giles, the council's Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: "This year's excellent result reflects our continued determination and commitment to ensure every one of our young people is in school, training, work or college and I'm delighted we have been able to increase the numbers of those who are participating so significantly in recent years.
"Thanks to the dedication and commitment of staff working in this area, more young people have benefitted from the opportunities that are available to help them improve their life chances
"We know that the pandemic, and the ongoing difficulties this will present, will make the coming year more challenging but we will continue to do everything we can to make sure our young people are given the skills they need for their future success."
2019 figures for young people not in education, employment or training
Newport
Year 11 - 0.9 per cent
Year 12- 0.8 per cent
Year 13 - 1.8 per cent
Wales
Year 11 - 1.8 per cent
Year 12 - 0.8 per cent
Year 13 - 2.5 per cent