A-level students were warned to stay in education if they want to keep their job prospects realistic, following a poll by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation.

The stark warning was issued by the REC after polling recruiters who collectively interview thousands of school leavers each year.  

Recruiters welcome the fact that students are attaining higher level grades and recognise the efforts that go into achieving these. However, almost all respondents (92%) rated the performance of school leavers as average or below average, raising concerns that the education system is not equipping students with the skills to succeed in business.

A lack of communication skills, unrealistic expectations and poor work ethic have been cited as the key employer complaints with school leavers looking for a job.