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

The author of a major report into youth activity in the UK says children as young as four should be learning about careers.

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

Former minister Alan Milburn has called for primary school children to start learning about different careers from a young age, as part of a major report into youth activity in the UK. Milburn suggests that children as young as four should be introduced to the world of work through dedicated curriculum time, with employers providing talks and taster sessions.

He believes that work experience placements should also be made mandatory for 14- to 16-year-olds, as it can significantly impact their future prospects. However, teaching unions warn that primary schools already face significant pressure and may struggle to provide the necessary support. Currently, in England, careers guidance is offered to students aged 11-18, but work experience is not statutory.

The government aims to guarantee two weeks of work experience for every young person in England. Milburn's recommendations are set to be published in the final part of his government-commissioned report, which is expected to be released in the autumn.

Written by urgent.news from BBC Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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