16 and 17-year-olds who are not in a job, in education or on a training scheme are being targeted by the government's Learning Gateway, which aims to re-involve them in learning.

The government is particularly concerned about the divide between pre and post-16 education and training, and has set up the scheme to help achieve its target of 100 percent participation in education and training by young people under the age of 19.

Young people who are likely to drop out of learning because of a lack of the right skills or attitudes, or who have personal or social issues to overcome will also be targeted by the scheme.

Careers services and TECs are working together to identify those suitable for the programme. Each young person will have a personal adviser, who will identify their needs and put together a personal development plan for them.

The scheme will work in different ways according to the needs of those taking part - formal training programmes such as Modern Apprenticeships may be used, but some young people will require additional support such as the development of life skills before undertaking any formal learning.

For futher details, visit the Learning Gateway on the DfEE's website.