The Scottish Conservatives have suggested a “bold” new proposal to lower the school leaving age below 16 in an effort to expand opportunities for young people and increase the country’s economic potential.
In a speech to a think tank on Wednesday in Edinburgh, Russell Findlay MSP will say the proposal could give students a “fast track” to an apprenticeship or college place.
He will also say the idea could grow Scotland’s economy by developing a stronger workforce, reducing skills gaps and encouraging more investment.
The Scottish Conservative leader will be joined by the party’s shadow education secretary, Miles Briggs MSP, on a tour of a successful apprenticeship programme in East Lothian on Wednesday afternoon.
Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay will say: “My party is putting forward a common-sense agenda for change.
“We are the only party at Holyrood who sincerely want to overhaul Scottish education.
“I want to propose a bold idea that I think deserves serious consideration and debate.
“A proposal that could transform opportunities for those young people who are being left behind.
“For decades, Scotland’s minimum school leaving age has been 16.
“Too many young people become trapped in a system that isn’t working for them. Even worse, far too many exit from it altogether.
“This is not about writing off these young people. It is the very opposite of that.
“It is about guiding each individual onto the path best suited to their aspirations.
“It is about giving young people an opportunity to continue in a form of hybrid education that is better suited to their talents.
“Upon leaving school at 15, maybe even 14, they would still be required to stay in education.
“But it would be a form of education that works for them.
“A fast track to opportunity, whether college or an apprenticeship.
“By developing our proposal hand in hand with businesses, we could make Scotland’s economy fit for the future.”