Boost Funding for 16-19 Education, UK Groups Demand

A coalition of 14 social mobility organisations in the United Kingdom is calling for a new “student premium” to support disadvantaged young people aged 16-19, arguing that current help drops away after GCSEs and leaves some students at higher risk of becoming NEET.

The groups say the proposed funding would fill a gap that opens when the existing pupil premium for low-income students in England’s state-funded schools typically ends after GCSE examinations. They want the new premium to help schools, colleges and sixth forms provide targeted support through the 16-19 phase.

Proposed “student premium” and estimated cost

The coalition estimates the policy would cost about £430 million a year from 2027-28. They say the premium would be set at a level that mirrors the current secondary school pupil premium.

Under the proposal, providers could use the money for interventions such as tutoring and mentoring. The groups also point to support aimed at helping students secure English and mathematics qualifications, which they describe as a key need for those who leave GCSEs without those passes.

NEET figures and the risk after age 16

The campaign comes as the Office for National Statistics reported that 957,000 people aged 16-24 were not in education, employment or training in the final quarter of last year. That figure represents 12.8% of the age group, according to the ONS.

The coalition argues that the 16-19 stage is a critical point for preventing disengagement. It says disadvantaged students’ attainment remains well behind that of their peers by the end of 16-19 education, and it highlights a higher risk of becoming NEET among those who do not have GCSE English and mathematics at 16.

Government review of deprivation funding

The government is already reviewing how deprivation funding is allocated, with a consultation expected later this year. Officials have said the aim is to ensure support is targeted effectively at those facing the most significant disadvantage.

The coalition’s proposal is positioned as a specific response to the post-GCSE period, when students move into sixth forms, colleges or other 16-19 settings. The groups say a dedicated premium would give providers a clearer route to fund support for students who need extra help to stay engaged and progress.

It remains unclear whether the government’s forthcoming consultation will adopt the coalition’s “student premium” model, or whether any changes would be delivered through existing funding streams. The groups are urging action to reduce the number of young people who fall out of education or work during the transition after GCSEs.