M&S Introduces New Traineeship for Young People
Marks and Spencer is launching a new training scheme aimed at young people seeking to enter the workforce, addressing the "growing youth unemployment challenge."
Targeting individuals aged 16 to 24, the initiative will create 1,000 training placements across the UK and Ireland over the next 18 months.
The paid programme is designed to address the increasing number of young people classified as 'Neets'—those not in employment, education, or training.
Rising Numbers of Young People Not in Employment, Education, or Training
According to the latest official data, more than one million young people are Neet, marking the highest figure in over 12 years and representing approximately one in eight young individuals. A recent key review warned that without intervention, one in six young people will be Neet within five years.
The review highlighted that job and career opportunities for those entering the workforce are "not growing, they're shrinking." Its author, former minister Alan Milburn, cautioned about the risk of a "lost generation."
The report identified multiple contributing factors to the crisis, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the influence of smartphones, health challenges, and the current labor market conditions, which have seen a significant decline in entry-level job availability.
Role of Retail and Hospitality in Early Work Experience
High street retailers and hospitality sectors, such as restaurants, cafes, and pubs, often provide many young people with their first work experience.
M&S stated that its new scheme will offer six months of training, with successful participants receiving additional training aimed at progressing to store management roles.
There is no requirement for participants to hold a degree to be eligible for the programme.
Statements from M&S Leadership
Retailer Director Thinus Keeve commented on the initiative:
"We want more young people to see retail not just as a first job, but as a career with real opportunity, real responsibility and real progression... This programme is about opening doors for the next generation and giving talented young people the chance to thrive."
Government Initiatives and AI Impact on Entry-Level Jobs
The launch coincides with a government announcement of a partnership involving industry and trade unions to examine the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on entry-level roles.
The partnership will explore how entry-level jobs are evolving and provide guidance to businesses on redesigning roles while preserving pathways into the workforce.
The government also revealed that 400,000 students from disadvantaged schools in the UK will receive AI and technology training to support their transition into further education, training, and employment.
Last year, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a guarantee of paid work placements for young people who have been out of employment or education for 18 months, aiming to prepare them for full-time employment.
