CBI responds to A-Level results day

The CBI has responded to A-Levels results day in England.

Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:

“Congratulations to those getting their A-Level results today, after many years of hard work and determination.

“Despite tough times ahead for the economy, employers are committed to creating opportunities for young people to get their first foot on the ladder.

“Businesses know this has been one of the most challenging years for students in recent memory.  Regardless of today’s outcome, the fact is there is more than one path to a successful career.

“Whether going on to further study or entering the world of work, the resilience demonstrated by young people throughout this unprecedented period will be a key ingredient to their success.

“As students start the next chapter of their lives, building on these personal attributes alongside good communication and creative flair will undoubtedly improve their long-term career prospects.”

On the regional disparities in pupils achieving top grades, Matthew said:

“Education helps open doors and creates opportunity for young people as they start out in their adult lives.

“As we build our economy back better, businesses want to see education and job opportunities levelled up right across the country.

“More financial support for apprenticeships will help, as well as strong partnership to make a success of the Kickstart scheme.

“Together, these steps will help the next generation in realising its full potential. We must not allow the pandemic to obstruct this, or worse yet, deepen existing social inequality.”

On STEM subject uptake, Matthew said:

“Companies will be delighted to see the uptake of STEM subjects holding steady and students performing well.

“With maths remaining the most popular subject and science accounting for a fifth of all entries, these skills will undoubtedly help businesses innovate and reap the benefits of digital and technological advances in the workplace.”

On decreases in modern foreign language uptake, Matthew said:

“Our country’s position as a global trading nation means it’s vital to be able to communicate with customers and suppliers globally. Business demand for foreign language skills has skyrocketed, but uptake of these subjects has proven stubbornly low.

“Reversing this trend is critical to increasing the UK’s international competitiveness and to ensuring young people have the high level of cultural awareness that supports a successful career.”