The Education Secretary wants every child in England to have been in school or some form of training until their 18th birthday. The last time full time education was increased was in 1972. It was increased to the age of 16. Since then there has been some interest to raise the age limit to 18, but it seems that it is almost certain to take place.
The reason for this is because many children leave school without any form of qualifications which has lead to many of them on the streets or in the Criminal Justice system. Those who fail to attend will be fined £50 which will made clear on the Government's Green Paper. There are hopes that many will support and comply with the new system by 2015.