Raising the Participation Age RPA

Young people who started secondary education after September 2008 will be affected by Raising the Participation Age (RPA). Current Y10 learners will leave at age 17.  Current Y9 learners and  onwards will leave at age 18.  It means that by 2015 all young people will continue in education/ training until the age of 18. Raising the participation age (RPA) does not mean young people must stay in school; they will able to choose one of the following options.  Full-time education, such as school, college or home education. Work-based learning, such as an Apprenticeship.  Part-time education or training if they are employed, self-employed or volunteering for more than 20 hours a week.