News

The Government has announced ‘fundamental’ changes to the UK’s education system

"From today, Britain will value the hard hat every bit as much as the graduation cap."

Emily Sergeant - 28th July 2026

The Government will unveil a fundamental change to the education system today with the launch of new prestigious technical educational routes.

Andy Burnham says he is 'determined' to put technical education on an equal footing with the traditional academic path to ensure there are no so-called 'dead ends' for young people coming out of the education system by providing them high-quality alternative routes that are valued and respected by students, parents, and employers alike.

The new pathways will provide 14-year-olds with 'valuable' early access to technical skills, work experience, and connections with local employers.

Building on successful local initiatives - such as the MBacc, launched by Andy Burnham in Greater Manchester when he was Mayor - the new technical routes will mean young people can develop the technical knowledge and skills needed to progress in areas like engineering, healthcare, and digital technology.

It will aim to 'skill them up' with the specific knowledge and capabilities that local employers need. 

So, how will it all work then? Well, when students enter Year 10, they will have the chance to combine core academic subjects - including English, Maths, and Science - with a high-quality technical education that’s linked to the jobs available in their area.

During these courses, students will be able to spend time with employers and gain valuable real-world experience.  

Regional mayors, local leaders, schools, colleges, and employers will work together to shape these new technical education pathways, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all system.

To support this, the Government says it will prioritise funding towards high-quality technical education and practical routes into work, and will also change the way school performance is measured so that inspectors recognise the schools support young people to develop the skills, experience, and confidence employers want.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Andy Burnham (@andy.burnham)

This way, no matter whether young people choose university, an apprenticeship, further education, or direct entry into a skilled profession, they will able to see a clear route from education into employment.

"For too long in this country, students have been told that you must take the academic path to do well and to be respected," explained Prime Minister Andy Burnham.

"The whole school system has been built around it and that has let down young people seeking technical qualifications.

"I want an education system based on parity between academic and technical which gives all young people a clear path in life.

"From today, Britain will value the hard hat every bit as much as the graduation cap."

Featured Image - MChe Lee (via Unsplash)