Policy Connect publishes Interim Report on “Earning or Learning” inquiry, reviewing evidence on how to support young people into work, education and training

Policy Connect has today published the interim report for its ongoing “Earning or Learning” inquiry, providing an overview and analysis of the evidence gathered since February 2025 on how best to support young people into secure work, education, or training. 

The cross-party inquiry, carried out by the Skills Commission, examines what it takes to ensure no young person is left without a positive post-16 destination, and how policy can better prevent young people becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training). 

Drawing on written submissions, roundtable discussions, and oral evidence from young people, colleges, training providers, employers, local and devolved authorities, charities and national policymakers, the interim report: 

• Reviews the evidence collected between February and December 2025. 
• Identifies emerging themes on what works to keep young people “earning or learning”. 
• Highlights gaps and tensions in the current system that risk leaving vulnerable young people behind. 
• Sets out questions and priorities that will guide the second phase of the inquiry. 

“This interim report provides a compelling evidential base on the scale of this dire UK wide challenge. From systemic failures in education and skills, to barriers to engagement in learning, from understanding the regional imperative to the identification of effective intervention strategies. These findings are timely as the widely publicised UK Government’s commitment to skills investment will not lead to growth without meeting the essential economic and well-being needs of c1M 16–24-year-olds. Society cannot afford for our young people to be further marginalised or left behind.” 

— Robin Ghurbhurun, Commissioner, UK Managing Director, Further Education and Skills, Nations, Advice and Training, Jisc 

“The future of our young people depends on the strength and sustainability of youth work. Youth workers are skilled professionals who meet young people where they are, providing guidance and support that extends across all aspects of their lives. From education and training to employment opportunities, youth workers play a pivotal role in helping young people navigate the challenges they face, build the skills and confidence they need, and unlock their full potential. As we look to the future, it is crucial that the Government delivers an ambitious National Youth Strategy that places youth work at its heart, with clear, measurable goals and a roadmap for sustainable funding. We also urgently need sufficiency benchmarks to define what sufficient youth provision looks like, providing local authorities with the clarity they need to meet their statutory duty and deliver services that are accessible, high-quality, and effective”

– Harriet McCann, Director of Policy, Insights and External Affairs, National Youth Agency 

“This interim review shows a strong consensus around the importance place-based interventions, accessible pathways into vocational and technical routes, and tailored support for young people who face complex barriers. We are grateful to all those who have contributed evidence to date, and we will continue to engage widely as we develop robust, practical recommendations.”

— Alyson Hwang, Report Author, Policy Connect

Key emerging themes 

The interim report synthesises evidence submitted since February 2025 and highlights several early themes: 

• Early identification and prevention. Stakeholders emphasised the importance of early intervention at key transition points, particularly from Year 11 onwards, to prevent young people from becoming NEET. 
• Inclusive and flexible pathways. Evidence underscored the need for more flexible, inclusive routes for young people with disabilities, caring responsibilities, or other barriers, including supported employment and alternative provision. 
• Local coordination and accountability. Contributors highlighted the role of local partnerships, combined authorities, and devolved approaches in coordinating support for young people, but also pointed to fragmented responsibilities. 
• Employer engagement and real opportunities. Employers and providers stressed the importance of high-quality work experience, apprenticeships, and in-work support to help young people move into and progress in employment. 

The interim report does not make final recommendations, but instead: 

• Summarises the evidence base gathered so far. 
• Outlines the next steps for the inquiry, including further evidence sessions, regional visits, and engagement with young people and practitioners. 

Next steps 

The “Earning or Learning” inquiry will continue with a final report setting out detailed policy recommendations to be published in 2026. 

Policy Connect invites further submissions of evidence and engagement from: 

• Young people and youth-led organisations 
• Further education colleges, universities and training providers 
• Local authorities, combined authorities and devolved governments 
• Employers, sector bodies and trade unions 
• Charities and organisations working with young people at risk of becoming NEET 

Details on how to submit evidence and get involved are available on the Policy Connect website. 

Notes to editors 

• About the “Earning or Learning” inquiry: The inquiry is led by Policy Connect and supported by the Skills Commission with cross-party parliamentary involvement. It aims to develop practical, evidence-based recommendations to ensure every young person has access to a high-quality education, training or employment pathway. 
• Timeframe of evidence reviewed: This interim report covers evidence collected from February 2025 to December 2025. 
• About Policy Connect: Policy Connect is a cross-party think tank working to improve people’s lives through inclusive, sustainable and evidence-based public policy. We support several All-Party Parliamentary Groups, commissions, and forums, bringing together parliamentarians, government, industry, academia, and civil society. 

For more information  or to arrange interviews, please contact: 

Alyson Hwang 
Research and Strategy Manager 
Policy Connect
Email: Alyson.hwang@policyconnect.org.uk