Successful Youth Transitions Mayors Taskforce for Jobs 22 April 2004

Why focus on youth? Most youth make successful transitions to study or work However, at any point in time 10–15% of 15 to 19 year olds are not in education, training or work Some of this group are highly at risk Others may make poor choices and risk long term unemployment

What if we don’t act? Poor youth outcomes have high social and economic costs The world of work is changing rapidly: young people must have viable options for their future Youth non-participation will increase as the baby blip reaches 15 to 19 years of age over the next decade

A goal for youth The need for a goal to focus effort on youth arose independently at national and local Government levels In October 2002 Government and MTFJ agreed: ‘by 2007, all 15 – 19 year olds will be engaged in appropriate education, training, work or other options that will lead to long term economic independence and well being’

Successful transitions: a framework NZ already has many of the features the OECD considers effective, including: Well organised pathways connecting education, training and the labour market Workplace experience combined with education Transitions systems aimed at potential school leavers and unemployed youth Good information and guidance about services at school and post school Effective institutions and processes

A multi-year work programme A core group of Government agencies are working together: DOL, MSD, MOE and TEC. Career Services, Ministry of Youth Development, Treasury, Te Puni Kokiri, and Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs contribute expertise Consultation with Mayors Taskforce for Jobs Recommendations for Budget funding (Budget 2003: a $56.6M package including expanding Gateway and Modern Apprenticeships)

3 priorities for 2004 Enhancing careers information, advice and guidance Improving coordination of post- school local support services for at-risk youth Improving vocational education and training in schools

Next stage priorities Identifying future job opportunities for youth in industry Considering financial incentives for young people to participate in education and training Improving the transition support services for young people with disabilities

Signs of improvement Youth unemployment has declined Youth benefit receipt has declined Higher youth participation in tertiary education and training Significant expansion of work- based learning pathways

Challenges/next steps Reinforce crucial elements of a successful transitions framework Continuing need for coordination of efforts at national, regional and local levels A vital role for partnerships Involving young people and keeping their needs and interests paramount throughout the process