Over the past 15 years, the number of young people in the UK categorized as NEETs (Not in Employment, Education, or Training) has fluctuated between 750,000 and 1.25 million. Currently, about 900,000 young people fall into this category, a stark reminder of the challenges many students face after leaving secondary education.
In 2024, 700,000 students sat for their GCSE exams, and a worrying 200,000 (35%) failed. These students risk becoming part of the NEET statistic, each of them costing society £100,000 over their lifetime due to lost potential and increased dependence on public services.
This is where One Degree comes in. Our innovative online mentoring programme aims to change these figures. Historically, One Degree’s programme cost between £800 and £1,500 per student, a worthy investment considering the long-term benefits. But through the development of a new platform, we’ve reduced this cost to just £100 per student, making it more accessible and scalable than ever before.
The Impact of One Degree
Our approach has had an incredible impact on student outcomes. On average, students who participate in our programme see a 71% improvement in their grades, significantly up from the 31% predicted at the start. Additionally, a comparison of traditional and purely online approaches shows only a 5% difference in student performance, demonstrating the effectiveness of our digital model.
One Degree has also built partnerships with 174 companies, 50% of which are from the finance sector. We’re supported by two of the best MBA programmes in London—London Business School and Hult International Business School—helping to provide mentorship opportunities that make a tangible difference.
One Degree’s Innovation
What sets One Degree apart is our mentoring pedagogy, our custom-built platform, and our intervention impact algorithm. These innovations ensure that each student receives the tailored support they need to succeed.
A Brighter Future
At One Degree, we believe that the 35% GCSE failure rate is not an inevitability. By opening doors through mentoring, education, and support, we can help students avoid becoming part of the NEET statistic. With more doors opened, young people can aspire to competitive careers, contribute to the economy, and leave behind the label of NEET for good.
Together, we can make this a reality.