Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 45
45
Accepted
Utilise local data to address barriers in areas with below-average qualification attainment.
Conclusion
We also recommend that the Department utilises local authority-level data to identify and address the unique barriers in areas in which attainment across qualification pathways (including A Levels, T Levels, AGQs) is below the national average. (Recommendation, Paragraph 171)
Government response summary AI-generated
The government accepts the recommendation, stating Skills England is already strengthening jobs and skills data by mapping pathways and developing a new skills taxonomy. It will also develop a Local Skills Dashboard for effective data release and publish research interests by early 2026 to further improve data collection.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government · verbatim extract
Accepted
PLANS ALREADY IN PLACE The Department already collects and uses used Local Authority data such as the A level and other 16 to 18 results statistical release, which includes attainment by local authority and student characteristics (sex, ethnicity, disadvantage status, free school meal provision, first language, special educational needs provision, and KS4 prior attainment). We also collect attainment data at Level 2 and 3 for ages 16 to 25, which includes attainment variation by LA and FSM, disadvantage and SEND. We also collect data in relation to participation in education, training and NEET age 16 to 17 by local authority. In addition, Further Education providers submit a monthly Individualised Learner Record providing information on their learners and the courses that they are taking. This is aggregated to Local Authority based on learner postcode internally and within Official Statistics publications, to report on achievements and outcomes of learners. We will strengthen how young people at risk of becoming NEET are identified and supported. Local authorities, Strategic Authorities, schools, and further education providers will be enabled to share and use data more effectively, supported by new “Risk of NEET” indicator tools and guidance. Artificial intelligence will enhance this process, and collaboration with organisations focused on tackling NEETs will improve data collection and sharing to support smooth transitions. This range of date provides a rich source of information for the department on attainment across a range of qualifications.
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