Research and analysis

Interim Report: Young people and work report - survey with education professionals

Published 20 April 2026

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This interim report provides select findings on teachers’ views of young people’s opportunities and barriers to access and engage in work, education and training, and the current focus of the school curriculum. 

The report is based on an online survey of 1,004 primary and secondary school teachers who are YouGov Plc UK panel members. Fieldwork was carried out between 10 March and 23 March 2026. Figures have been weighted and are representative of UK teachers. 

A final report will be published in July 2026.  

Select findings

  • Teachers generally thought that the curriculum puts too much emphasis on passing exams (74%) and not enough focus on preparing young people for employment (73%) or teaching soft skills for employment (73%).  

  • The majority of teachers (73%) believed it possible for the curriculum to be adapted to provide a broader set of skills for work and employment while still maintaining high academic standards. 

  • Large majorities of respondents supported all schools providing career advice and guidance (98%), more applied or vocational pathways for children before the age of 16 (92%) and alternative pathways targeted towards young people who struggle with the current curriculum (95%). 

  • Most teachers thought that young people had weaker soft skills (60%) and preparedness for work (66%) than 5 years ago.

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