Post-16 duty to participate

Also called Raising the participation age, RPA, Staying in education

Young people in England must stay in education or training until 18. It does not have to be school.

What it is

Young people in England must continue in education or training until at least their 18th birthday. This is often misdescribed as "the school leaving age going up to 18" — it did not.

The options are full-time education, an apprenticeship or traineeship, or part-time education or training alongside employment or volunteering of 20 hours or more a week.

Where it applies

Young people who finish year 11. Compulsory school age still ends on the last Friday in June of year 11.

How it works

The duty is on the young person; enforcement powers for local authorities exist but are not currently used.

Councils must track and support 16 and 17 year olds and identify those NEET — not in education, employment or training.

For young people with an EHCP, the plan can continue post-16 and into further education.

What you can ask for

Ask what the plan is by the spring of year 11, not the summer. Places at good provision fill early.

For a young person with an EHCP, ask for the college to be named in Section I in good time — colleges must be consulted and have their own deadlines.

Ask about supported internships and traineeships as well as courses.

Where to get help

The council's 16-19 or participation team, the National Careers Service, and SENDIASS where there is an EHCP.