Around 100 young people took part in the Big Education Conversation in Blackpool – aimed at giving youngsters a stronger voice in shaping their futures.
Pupils, mainly aged between 11 and 16 from schools across Blackpool, were introduced to possible career paths at Blackpool attractions including the Sea Life Centre, Tower Circus and Madame Tussaud’s. Later they took part in discussions with decision-makers about what changes were needed to improve employment and training prospects, in sessions led by Blackpool Youth Council.
Andrew Speight, also a youth advisor, said young people felt the education system was "in crisis". He added: “Our best hope of successfully navigating out of the state we’re in now is to share the power with those who the system impacts most – young people, teachers, parents/carers and employers.”