England young workers outside higher education secure half permanent contracts

Survey tracks post-school transitions

This research tracked 4,295 individuals born in 2004 or 2005 between the ages of 15 and 20. Data collection occurred over three waves between May 2021 and January 2025. Among those who did not progress to higher education, just 16% secured apprenticeships. Only 23% had stable work by ages 19 to 20 in this specific group.

Inequalities affect access and pay

Young people from Asian and Black backgrounds apply for apprenticeships at similar rates to white peers. Their chances of securing a spot drop by roughly 15 and 12 percentage points, respectively. Temporary work is associated with worse pay and poorer workplace relationships than stable employment. The proportion of young people classified as not in education, employment or training doubled between ages 17 and 18 to 19 and 20.

Authors warn against welfare reforms

Researchers say the vast majority want to work but are let down by a system riven by inequalities. They advise being wary about proposed welfare reforms that could force young people into poor-quality employment. Instead, attention should center on expanding and leveling access to quality employment. Many participants carry vulnerabilities from their schooling into the early stages of the labor market.