Hackney learners Masuma Begum Ali and Frederick Philpott were dispatched to Parliament recently to give politicians a tidy take on what it’s really like to be NEET.

The Spurstowe Terrace students, who are both taking their first steps in childcare on apprenticeships with Rathbone, gave oral evidence at the Department of Children Family and Schools’ Committee Enquiry on Young People Not in Education, Employment and Training (NEET) held on March 1st.

Frederick Philpott and Masuma Begum Ali

Facing a gang of four MPs, Masuma and Freddy discussed a range of topics including the financial difficulties unemployed youngsters face and the pressure they might come under to become involved in drugs or crime. Our dynamic duo was also asked about their experiences at high school. Both Freddy and Masuma stated that life at Rathbone was much better because the courses were flexible and allowed learners to progress at their own pace. They were also impressed that Rathbone tutors took a strong interest in young people, helping them to overcome personal and educational barriers.

Afterwards Freddy, who shared the platform with young people from other charities including Barnado’s, said: “It was really useful way to get to know what other young people think about being NEET and to find out what the Government is doing to help young people who are NEET.”

Rathbone Chief Executive Dr Richard Williams together with Sonia Sodha, Head of the Capabilities Programme at the think tank Demos and Minister of State for Children, Schools and Families Ed Balls MP, have already given evidence to the Committee.

The March event was all about gaining a young person’s insight into the problem.

Anne-Marie Griffiths, Second Clerk for the Committee, said: “I just wanted to say a huge thank you to Fredrick and Masuma for coming to the Committee’s session. I know the Members found it really helpful to speak to the young people and lots of the things they heard were raised with the Minister shortly afterwards.”

Masuma (16) and Frederick (17) are both members of the Rathbone Hackney Youth Board and participated in a recent Youth Manifesto Workshop to examine which political issues matter most to our London learners.