Rural Opportunities

A study of work-related learning (WRL) opportunities in the rural economy for young people aged 14-19.

A study of work-related learning (WRL) opportunities in the rural economy for young people aged 14-19.

Key findings:

  • WRL benefits young people and rural economies.
  • Opportunities to deliver WRL in rural contexts are often missed.
  • Rural employers can find engagement harder because of their size. Small firms can ill-afford a lot of non-productive activity.
  • Ways of encouraging rural employers to participate include highlighting the benefits and providing simple options for participation.
  • Starting WRL early and the use of technology can also encourage more engagement. 

The study challenges traditional approaches to work-related learning and examines models of engagement between innovative rural employers and 14-19 year olds, which provide the opportunity for young people to develop the skills necessary to succeed in the future. Case studies are used to highlight some of the key benefits for those participating: young people, schools and colleges, and rural economy employers.

 

Commissioned by the Nesta, this is one of three reports looking at how organisations and businesses in different sectors can engage more effectively with education. The other reports focus on the third sector and the creative industries.

 

Author:

Nesta