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CBI: Education matters, delivering a great future for young people - GCSE results

There are many options on the table for school leavers, including A-Levels, high-quality technical qualifications and apprenticeships.

Commenting on this year’s GCSE results, CBI Director for people and skills policy, Neil Carberry, said:

“We know that education really matters when it comes to delivering a great future for young people and for the nation as a whole.  Congratulations to everyone getting their results today - your hard work and determination has paid off and will help prepare you for your next step.

“While many young people will choose to move onto A-Levels, university and beyond, there are many options on the table for school leavers, including high-quality technical qualifications and apprenticeships.

“We must better inform pupils on all the pathways available to successful careers, and do so from an earlier age.  There is a clear role for businesses alongside schools and careers professionals in creating a system that inspires and supports everyone.  Business is ready to play its part, stepping up on offering work experience, school visits and mentoring.  Supporting the new Careers & Enterprise Company in its work to transform the quality of advice our young people receive is also vital.

“The government must concentrate more on career outcomes than grades alone.  Exam results are only a part of the package that set people on the path to success, alongside the wider range of qualities that employers look for, such as resilience, creativity and a positive attitude.  Both parts of this have a common source - great teaching in great schools, so it’s vital we support head teachers in a system where the right behaviours and experiences are just as important as the right grades.”

On the fall in maths and English grades

“With this year’s results including mandatory resits for the first time, it’s no surprise there has been a slight drop in the rate of those getting A*-C. Supporting all students in developing strong literacy and numeracy is a priority, that’s why businesses want to see provision to 18 on both subjects for all young people.” 

On the rise in science and computing entries

“The rise in students studying separate sciences and computing will be warmly welcomed by businesses across the country, as a vital step to addressing key skills shortages in science, technology, engineering and maths.   In order to stand toe-to-toe with our international competitors, we need to make sure that these young people have engaging and stretching options to continue their studies in these fields.”

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