Petition · Department for Education
Allow children 16+ to work full time instead of mandatory education
Closed
41 signatures
What the petition asks
Under the Education and Skills Act 2008, school leavers must either go to college, do an apprenticeship/traineeship or part time work & education. I believe the law should change so that young people can legally work full time instead of having to go back into education after turning 16.
As a young person myself, I work a well-paid job. I also contribute to National Insurance payments which helps the NHS, schools, etc. I would prefer to work for a year or two, building up experience in my sector, instead of having to go back into college or do an apprenticeship that I don't want to do.
Timeline
| 30 Jul 2025 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 30 Jan 2026 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
41
Status
Closed
Department
Department for Education
Opened
30 Jul 2025
Closed
30 Jan 2026
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 21 Aug 2026.