County Hall chiefs say the number of young people who fall into the NEET category - because they’re Not in Education, Employment or Training - is now at a record low.

Latest government figures show that the Herts figure was 3.7 per cent at the end of March, compared to a national average of 4.8 per cent. Since that data was collected, the picture in the county has got even brighter and now stands at just 3.5 per cent.

David Williams, Herts County Council’s cabinet member for education and skills, welcomed the news and praised the contribution of the Youth Connexions team. He said: “It is a priority to make sure young people get a good start in life at one of our many excellent schools and colleges and learn the skills that will enable them to be part of the county’s thriving economy.

“The figures that have just been released are extremely encouraging and indicative of the commitment of our Youth Connexions staff and our partners to help young people.”

The county council’s Youth Connexions team works with schools, colleges and employers to deliver careers guidance and work-related learning. They provide a free employment service for those aged 16 to 19 sourcing vacancies, identifying apprenticeships and developing the skills of young people to be ready for work.

The service estimates that it has been in contact with 97 per cent those aged 16 to 19 in the county. A highly interactive and smart-phone compatible website at www.youthconnexions.org offers a search facility for jobs and training, along with a CV builder.