Pupils will soon be made to give presentations and debate in class in bid to get them ‘job-ready’ in major shake-up

PUPILS could soon be expected to give presentations, debate in class and explain their thinking to get them “job ready”. Labour is considering including speaking skills in more school subjects as part of a curriculum shake-up. Labour is considering adding more speaking skills to lessons, with children potentially expected to give presentations, debate and explain their thinking Credit: Alamy Ex-Health Secretary Alan Milburn’s interim review found two-thirds of Neets said stronger speaking skills would improve their chances of getting a job Credit: Alamy Kids could be asked to debate historical sources, explain maths calculations and discuss scientific ideas in lessons. Greater emphasis would also be on teamwork, leadership and problem-solving. Sign up for the Politics newsletter Thank you! A Government-backed review found 67 per cent of youngsters not in education, employment or training (Neets) believe school failed to prepare them for work. Ex-Health Secretary Alan Milburn’s interim review found two-thirds of Neets said stronger speaking skills would improve their chances of getting a job. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “Good grades alone don’t guarantee a job. “Bosses want young people who can communicate, solve problems and work in a team. Alan Milburn is right that the curriculum as it stands doesn’t do enough to build those skills.” Analysis by the Centre for Social Justice reveals more than 100,000 21-year-olds are now living on jobless benefits. Most read in The Sun That is equivalent to four pupils in an average primary school class — up from three in the past five years. Comment now