Building work‐based learning into the school curriculum

Purpose The purpose of this article is to examine the increasing number of opportunities for pre‐16 young people at schools in England to become involved in work related and work based programmes and to look at the key drivers of change and their impact. Design/methodology/approach The approach is descriptive, covering current trends and also uses a case study example. Findings The conclusions of the article are that there is an upward increase in work‐based learning which is likely to continue significantly in the immediate and medium term. The article also highlights the increasing importance of employer engagement and understanding of the new initiatives. Research limitations/implications This article has been written from the perspective of Education Business Partnerships, who act in a brokerage capacity for schools, colleges and businesses. It is not based on statistical analysis directly from schools. Practical implications The increased flexibility offered to schools, and the possibility of varied contexts for learning, means that there will be a greater scope for schools to meet students’ learning needs. Originality/value This article will be of especial interest to any colleagues and employers involved in post‐16 provision of work based learning in terms of progression issues.