Commenting on Education Secretary Michael Gove’s evidence to the Education Select Committee yesterday, when he stated that ‘one of the best ways’ to stop children indulging in ‘risky behaviour’ is through increased academic teaching.

Lucie Russell, Director of Campaigns Policy and Participation, YoungMinds said:
"A good academic education may well be a factor in reducing 'risky behaviour' as Michael Gove states but just as important is building emotional resilience, social skills and self confidence.

 “Academic education alone will not provide this and thats why the Government must look more widely at the role of schools, as building character should be a key part of its purpose, especially for young people who do not excel academically".

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. For further information and to arrange interviews please contact Chris Leaman on 020 7089 5066 or 07813 810114 email  
2. YoungMinds is the UK’s leading children’s mental health charity...