To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what his plans are for the future of the e2e programme; and if he will make a statement. (307325)

Entry to Employment (E2E) as a distinct programme will finish this academic year, with provision from September 2010 being delivered as Foundation Learning, the national route for young people who are at entry level and Level 1. Foundation Learning is one of the four pathways that comprise the broad and engaging learning offer at the heart of our 14-19 reforms.

As emphasised in the delivery plan for the Raising of the Participation Age published on 15 December 2009, Foundation Learning enables flexible and inclusive recognition of learning achievements and emphasises personalised planning for progression—to Level 2 (Diplomas, Apprenticeships, GCSEs) wherever possible.

To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what estimate he has made of the cost to his Department of the January Guarantee of Entry to Employment places for those not in education, employment or training in 2009-10. (309728)

We are determined to ensure that every young person who is not in education, employment or training (NEET) is given an opportunity to engage in learning so that they can develop the skills they need to enter sustainable employment. Building on the success of our September Guarantee, the January Guarantee will ensure that all 16 and 17-year-olds who are NEET in January 2010 have the offer of an Entry to Employment place.

A funding package of £40 million is being made available by the Department to deliver the January Guarantee. This includes funding for 10,000 additional Entry to Employment places, education maintenance allowance for those additional young people who are eligible, and for local Connexions services to support young people to re-engage.