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We Are The People We've Been Waiting For

'We Are The People We've Been Waiting For' is a full length documentary film supported by Edge, and guided by Lord Puttman. The film follows the experiences of five Swindon-based teenagers. Not only does the film ask whether our education system provides young people with the opportunity to discover and develop their talents, it also delivers the powerful message that the world is changing rapidly, but our education system is not keeping pace. Transformation of the education system is vital if the UK is to continue to complete effectively in an era of globalisation.

Edge, an independent education foundation which is dedicated to raising the stature of practical and vocational learning, is working in partnership with the Young Foundation on two very interesting initiatives. Learning Launchpad fund has been created to enable young people to achieve their full potential, while Studio Schools Trust is a joint venture driving forward innovation in the British education system by establishing unique curriculum framework.

Further to the film, a Young Foundation publication called Grit, explores the issue that young people are not adequately prepared for a much tougher economic analysis. The report argues that Britain's schools need to prioritise grit and self-discipline rather than emphasize IQ and academic qualifications. Too much emphasis on exams and academic qualifications has pushed life skills and grit to the margin.