The latest data of 16-18 destination measures

The official statistics show students continuing to education, apprenticeship or employment destinations in the year after completing 16 to 18 study in schools and colleges in England.

The release also provides information on destination outcomes for students based on a range of individual characteristics, and geographical location and type of education provider.

The release focuses on outcomes for state-funded mainstream schools and colleges. See institution type section for outcomes for independent mainstream schools and special schools.

Headline facts and figures – 2020/21

Sector Response

Russell Hobby, Chief Executive of Teach First, said:

“Despite the same potential and talent, today we see that children from poorer backgrounds are half as likely to progress to sustained employment, apprenticeships or further education once they leave school. With the cost-of-living crisis forcing more families into poverty, there’s a real risk that more young people will find themselves in this situation, unless we act.

“A brilliant education has the power to transform this, which is why a government serious about growth must protect investment in education at the upcoming fiscal event. Given the difficult decisions needing to be made around departmental budgets, existing funding should be targeted towards pupils and schools in the most vulnerable communities – where it will make the greatest difference.”

Baker Dearing, Educational Trust chief executive Simon Connell, said:

“The Department for Education’s data unequivocally demonstrates the success of the University Technical College programme in securing the best outcomes for our students.

“Each UTC’s focus on careers-based learning and employer engagement – through project work and by involving local employers in curriculum planning – has meant more than twice as many of our students (12.9 per cent) progress to sustained apprenticeship destinations than the national average (6.4 per cent).

“With the government rightly aiming to bring the education sector closer to industry, through T-level industry placements and a strengthened Baker Clause, it is incumbent upon educators to build and strengthen their links with local employers. That also means employers must engage with and contribute to their local providers. The benefit for both parties will be a healthy pipeline of talent into sectors in need of an ambitious, talented workforce.

“As Commons Education Select Committee chair Robert Halfon MP and Careers and Enterprise Company CEO Oli de Botton wrote in Tes yesterday, there is still an overwhelming focus on exam results. But the release of destination data such as this ought to be as hotly anticipated as summer results days because that is what matters most for young people.

“The Baker Dearing Educational Trust will be releasing data towards the end of the year to re-emphasise the point that outcomes, not grades on a sheet, are what will benefit our pupils and create a high-growth economy.”