10th May 2016

Lord Baker has set out an eight-point plan to develop technical education for the 21st century.

The former education secretary and chair of the Edge Foundation writes in The Digital Revolution, that radical action is needed to help prepare children for the "fourth industrial revolution".

His report was prompted by the Bank of England’s prediction that up to 15 million jobs are at risk of automation across the UK economy.

His eight-point plan calls for the following initiatives:

1. Outside experts to teach coding in primary schools.
2. All primaries should have 3D printers and design software.
3. Secondary schools should be able to teach Computer Science, Design and Technology or another technical/practical subject in place of a foreign language GCSE.
4. The Computer Science GCSE should be taken by at least half of all 16 year olds
5. Young apprenticeships should be reintroduced at 14, blending a core academic curriculum with hands-on learning
6. All students should learn how businesses work, with schools linked to local employers
7. Schools should be encouraged to develop a technical stream from 14-18 for some students, covering enterprise, health, design and hands-on skills.
8. Universities should provide part-time courses for apprentices to get Foundation and Honours degrees.