Schools can't predict which children will become NEETs, says education writer

In recent discussions surrounding education policy in England, the idea proposed by Alan Milburn, a former minister and current government adviser, suggests that primary schools should identify children at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) by the age of 16. This proposal has sparked debate among educators and policymakers about the responsibilities placed on schools. Daisy Christodoulou, an education writer, critiques this notion, arguing that it is unrealistic to expect schools to predict future outcomes for students based on early warning signs. She emphasizes that while schools play a role in shaping students' futures, they are only one part of a larger system that includes economic factors and societal influences. Christodoulou points out that the primary focus of schools should be on teaching essential skills like literacy and numeracy, which are crucial for future success. The rising NEET rates in England and Wales have raised concerns, but Christodoulou believes that attributing these rates solely to school policies overlooks broader systemic issues, such as economic conditions and employment regulations. The discussion highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by young people in the education system, rather than placing undue pressure on schools to solve complex societal problems.