CBI responds to the Education Secretary's speech

Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:

“Building a world-class skills system that matches the might of our universities is critical for our country’s competitiveness. As we leave the EU, it’s now more important than ever that young people can access the high-quality training that they and their employers need to succeed.

“With employers crying out for these skills, technical education must be put on an equal footing with more academic qualifications. Awarding UCAS points for T-levels, getting incentives right by reforming pupil destination measures and increasing the supply of Level 4 and 5 qualifications will open up this important route to a great career.

“The direction of travel on T-levels is positive, and more collaboration between businesses and the Government will help ensure current technical skills reforms are long-lasting and prestigious.

“The Government can make sure technical education works by clearly setting out how companies can get involved with T-level work placements and by providing more detail on how Skills Advisory Panels will deliver for local areas.”