YOUNGSTERS could soon swap the classroom for the workplace in a shake-up of the school system.
Bury South MP Ivan Lewis has revealed plans for a junior apprenticeship scheme which could see 14 to 16-year-olds allowed regular work experience if they choose.
Mr Lewis, minister for skills and vocational education, is expected to unveil the proposals in Parliament in March.
Children who opt for the apprenticeship path would spend two days at school, two days in an office, factory or building site, and the remaining day at a further-education college.
The proposals are aimed at cutting school dropout rates and Mr Lewis believes the plans will put an end to the "one size fits all" education system.
He said: "We believe there are many young people for which the current curriculum is not appropriate.
"By bridging the gap between the classroom and the workplace, we will make people see the direct relationship between education and earning potential."
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