Government plans curriculum changes linked to local job markets

Andy Burnham has announced a plan to change how English schools teach students aged 14 and over. Under the plan, local mayors and business leaders will work with schools and colleges to design courses that match the needs of their area. Technical and vocational skills will be taught alongside traditional academic subjects. The plan will start in September 2028. Burnham based the idea partly on a programme he introduced in Greater Manchester. The government wants technical qualifications to be valued as highly as academic ones. Officials say the plan will help reduce youth unemployment and lower welfare costs. Instead of following one national curriculum, schools will connect their teaching more directly to local job opportunities.