Employers should teach primary-age children about work, says Milburn

Children should be introduced to the world of work at the start of primary school, says the author of a major report into youth activity in the UK.

Former minister Alan Milburn says children as young as four should be learning about different careers, with work experience placements made mandatory for 14- to 16-year-olds.

However, teaching unions warn of the "significant pressure" already facing primary schools and say practical considerations must ensure all schools have access to the support.

The latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) suggests 981,000 people aged 16 to 24 in the UK were not in education, employment or training (known as Neet), between April and June 2026.

Milburn told the BBC "in primary school, it's really about opening their eyes and giving them a sense about what is possible".

Despite a push towards apprenticeships and work experience in Years 10 and 11, for many the journey towards becoming Neet starts well before their 16th birthday.

As a result, Milburn says children should be introduced to the world of work much earlier in their school journey, with dedicated space in the curriculum to "broaden horizons".

He told the BBC this could be achieved by employers giving talks in primary schools and offering taster sessions to children.

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