Should the school-leaving age be lowered to 14, with pupils then entering paid apprenticeships?
In England the compulsory school leaving age is 16, after which young people must remain in education, training or work until 18. The government announced in July 2026 that from age 14 pupils will be able to combine core subjects with technical education, work experience and employer links, with rollout planned for 2028. Proposals to lower the leaving age to 14 for immediate paid apprenticeships have drawn criticism over safeguarding, foundational skills and employer readiness.
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