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20/08/2007
Teenagers Lack Essential Skills
More than half of employers say they face a 'nightmare' dealing with teenage school leavers who are unable to read, write and perform basic maths skills properly.
A new Confederation of British Industry (CBI) survey revealed many employers are unhappy with the fundamental English and maths skills of 16 year olds.
The figures show 52% of employers are dissatisfied with the basic literacy of school leavers, 59% with their basic numeracy, although a staggering 92% say teenagers IT skills are acceptable.
Richard Lambert, CBI Director-General, said: "Young people are clearly doing some things very well.
"Their fluency with iPods, mobiles and MySpace has translated well into the workplace, and often gives them an edge over their bosses."
"The challenge ahead is for schools to channel that same enthusiasm into numeracy and literacy skills, where far too many young people are struggling.
"Basic literacy and numeracy problems are a nightmare for business and for individuals, so we have to get these essentials right.
"Maths and English skills are a vital bedrock for further learning, and are essential both in the workplace and in life."
(CD/SP)
A new Confederation of British Industry (CBI) survey revealed many employers are unhappy with the fundamental English and maths skills of 16 year olds.
The figures show 52% of employers are dissatisfied with the basic literacy of school leavers, 59% with their basic numeracy, although a staggering 92% say teenagers IT skills are acceptable.
Richard Lambert, CBI Director-General, said: "Young people are clearly doing some things very well.
"Their fluency with iPods, mobiles and MySpace has translated well into the workplace, and often gives them an edge over their bosses."
"The challenge ahead is for schools to channel that same enthusiasm into numeracy and literacy skills, where far too many young people are struggling.
"Basic literacy and numeracy problems are a nightmare for business and for individuals, so we have to get these essentials right.
"Maths and English skills are a vital bedrock for further learning, and are essential both in the workplace and in life."
(CD/SP)
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