New figures reveal that 94.3% of 16-19 year olds in 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute are engaged in education, training, or employment—1.6% above the national average. This achievement places 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute Council ninth out of 32 local authorities in Scotland for participation levels, marking the seventh consecutive year in the top ten.
The Annual Participation Measure (APM) gauges the Scottish Government’s progress in meeting its commitment to offer a place in learning, training or employment to every 16-19 year old in Scotland.
Between 2022-23 and 2023-24, the number of 16-19 year-olds in 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute in education has increased from 64.3% to 64.8%. The national figure for 16-19 year olds in education is 71.2%, a fall of 0.3% from 2022-23.
In 2023-24, the number of young people in employment in 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute decreased slightly from 28.8% in 2022/23 to 28.2%. Even with this small dip, employment in 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute is significantly higher than the national average of 8.6%.
The above average figures for employment correspond with fewer 16-19 year olds in 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute in education, specifically further and higher education, than nationally.
The Council’s Education Service, Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), Skills Development Scotland (SDS), Community Learning and Development, local colleges, the Third Sector, and other partners are working together to boost participation rates and support young people in achieving their career goals.
Councillor Audrey Forrest, 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute Council’s Policy Lead for Education, praised the results: “These new figures are a testament to the dedication of our young people and the commitment and dedication from our schools, employability partners, and the wider education service. Our Developing Young Workforce initiative has been crucial in connecting young people with employers and equipping them with the skills needed for success.â€
“We remain committed to providing a wide range of opportunities in further education, training, and employment, ensuring our young people have the support they need to achieve their ambitions.â€