EDUCATION chiefs are calling for a better deal for North Yorkshire's young people.

The move follows a survey carried out by the county council's education department into vocational training and education for young people, aged 14 to 19.

Hugh Williamson, head of scrunity and corporate performance, told members that the study had revealed a shortage of skills.

But he said work was being done to improve choices for young people, involving schools, colleges, parents, the county business and education partnership, employers, careers service, and the students.

Mr Willamson said: "The need for improved literacy and numeracy skills is highlighted in the food and drink industry and across most other sectors.

"There is a specific shortage in trades skills, such as bricklayers, plumbers, joiners in the construction industry, and of maintenance staff in the rail industry."

The research highlighted that schools find it difficult to plan long-term due to uncertainty of funding, too much time spent on administration and schools in areas where the tourist industry is vital not running courses in leisure, tourism, hotel or catering.

The education and development scrutiny committee has backed moves to ensure all schools provide a mixture of vocational GCSEs and NVQs, linked to the area's economic needs.