We asked Belfast students about Stormont plans for young people to stay in education or training until 18

We asked students in Northern Ireland for their views on Stormont plans to make education or training compulsory until the age of 18.

Earlier this week, Education Minister Paul Givan said he will legislate to raise the school or training leaving age from 16 to 18. Currently, 7% of young people between the age of 16 and 24 are not in education, employment, or training.

We took to the streets of Belfast city centre to ask students their opinion on the move, with a mix of opinions coming through. The majority of people we spoke to understood where the government is coming from with the proposed legislation, however, many emphasised it should be down to personal choice.

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One woman opened up on how her sister left school aged 16 after not enjoying secondary school education, and is currently thriving and "on the right path" despite leaving school earlier.

Another woman, who said she is in two minds about the idea of moving compulsory education up to age 18, said the focus should be on different areas of education for young people.

A male student in Belfast city centre
We asked Belfast students about plans to increase the school leaving age to 18 in NI -Credit:Harry Bateman/Belfast Live

Announcing his intentions, the Education Minister said: "Over 100 years ago, in 1918, the Education Act not only raised the compulsory school leaving age to 14 but included a provision that all young people should participate in some form of education until they were 18.

"It is unacceptable that in 2024 this is not the case. Participation in education beyond the age of 16, directly impacts upon life chances of young people. Regrettably, a young person's background remains a key factor in whether they progress to post-16 education. Compulsory education or training ending at 16 is a remnant of a manufacturing society with many unskilled jobs that no longer exist.

"This is a commitment to our young people and our future, and I ask all parties to work with me to make it a reality."

Video by Belfast Live videographer Harry Bateman.

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