11th March 2026

Stockport councillors will consider a major review into education and training opportunities for young people aged 16–19 when the council’s Cabinet meets on 17 March.

The report follows a scrutiny panel investigation into post-16 education and outcomes, examining how well young people in the borough are supported after leaving secondary school and how their prospects can be improved.

Focus on Skills, Training and Employment

The review looks at how schools, colleges, employers and the council work together to help young people move into further education, apprenticeships or employment.

Councillors involved in the scrutiny panel examined a range of issues including:

  • The availability of college courses and sixth-form places
  • Access to apprenticeships and vocational training
  • Support for young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET)
  • The effectiveness of careers advice and guidance in schools

The panel’s work highlights the importance of strong partnerships between education providers and local businesses to ensure students gain skills that match the needs of the local economy.

Supporting Young People Into Work

A key theme in the report is helping more young people make a successful transition from school into work or further study.

The council already works with colleges, training providers and employers across Greater Manchester to strengthen pathways into employment and higher education. Local strategies emphasise the need for stronger careers advice and better links between education and industry.

Councillors were particularly interested in ensuring that technical education and apprenticeships are seen as equally valuable routes alongside traditional academic qualifications.

Helping Those Facing Barriers

The review also highlights the importance of targeted support for young people who may face additional challenges, including those with special educational needs, those from disadvantaged backgrounds and those at risk of dropping out of education.

Improving outcomes for these groups is seen as crucial to ensuring all young people in Stockport have the opportunity to reach their potential.

Next Steps

The Cabinet will now consider the scrutiny panel’s findings and recommendations. If adopted, they could shape future policy and partnership working between the council, schools, colleges and employers.

For communities like Romiley, the review could have long-term implications for how young people access education, training and employment opportunities in the borough.

With the local economy changing rapidly and employers increasingly demanding new skills, councillors say ensuring strong post-16 pathways is essential for the borough’s future workforce.