Let teenagers work at 16

The road to Hell is paved with good intentions. No-one doubts the goodwill of those who want to raise the school-leaving age to 18.

In a world seemingly based on the “knowledge economy,” we are told that those with knowledge will prosper and those without will fail.

So much for the fine sentiments. But what about the reality?

Some teachers are old enough to remember the Rosla (Raising of the School Leaving Age) programme of the 1970s. In theory, here was a great opportunity to ensure all pupils had access to a fuller education.

In real life, teachers found themselves facing a sullen generation of non-academic children who wanted nothing more than to leave the classroom and start earning a living.

Today, Education Secretary Alan Johnson announces a scheme to force children into training or continued education until they are 18.

He may see it as progress but teachers and pupils everywhere will despair. Those with most to lose are students who want to study but will be distracted by the disruption caused by classmates who simply want out.

There is a lesson that ambitious, high-flying ministers have yet to learn. It is that not everyone is like them.

Not everyone wants “success,” as defined by politicians.

Some people want nothing more than a simple job, a modest pay packet, a lot of freedom and a little independence.

While our young people have been denied this and have been forced into classes or work experience, Britain has become a honeypot for foreigners taking jobs that British teenagers might be glad of.

Some children struggle through school but blossom in the workplace. How sad that this transition may be needlessly delayed for two more years.

Our verdict on Alan Johnson’s plan is the one seen in so many school reports: Could do better.

Snow should wear a poppy with pride

Channel 4 newsreader Jon Snow declines to wear a poppy because he dislikes “poppy fascism”.

Snow steadfastly refuses to wear anything, from crucifixes to wrist bangles, that make any sort of political statement.

It is a principled stand and we are aware of the pressure, particularly from holier-than-thou politicians tumbling over each other to be the first to wear the remembrance poppy.

But the problem for Snow, and other TV presenters, is that he represents not just himself but his company and the viewers who pay his wages.

Part of the deal of being a public figure is that you sometimes have to put duty before self.

Jon Snow, like the rest of us, should wear his poppy with pride.