Implications of 14-19 Initiative in London East
             This government initiative is committed to improving the quality and standards of education and training in England. This paper will report on the implications of this initiative, as implemented in London East and more specifically my placement college, Newham College of Further Education.
             Over recent years, studies have shown that there is a distinct lack of young people leaving London East schools and colleges who have attained broad vocational skills (compared to other boroughs); therefore, these young people will be ill equipped to sustain long-term or paid employment. This government initiative came about to combat and rectify this situation by specifically targeting young people, aged 14 – 19 years, who are for one reason or another, not suited to mainstream traditional schooling. The intention is to improve low levels of achievement and aspirations and to raise the target groups prospects and expectations.
             Fig. 1 Comparative GCSE Attainment Table Conneely, (2003)
             When faced with the range of percentages as shown in Fig 1, it is evident that the 64% attainment level in Redbridge is comparatively higher than that of other boroughs. Newham and Hackney (both within the London East area) only achieved 42% and 31% respectively; both scored less than 50%. These results show cause for concern, nationally; but more locally – London East.
             These attainment figures are directly representative of the need to transform the educational opportunities for diverse communities in London East. Therefore, the 14-19, Transforming the Agenda initiative, supported by Local Government, The Learning Skills Council, Further Education Colleges, School Six-Forms, Employers, Partners etc. are required to work together to develop community learning to enable continued learning for young people that are less suited to traditional academi...