The school leaving age will increase to 18 from 16, as of September next year.

Education Minister El James made the announcement in the House of Assembly yesterday.

It follows notification of the Education Amendment Act 2008 Commencement Day Notice 2009 in the Official Gazette earlier this month.

"Let me be clear. Those students who turn 16 after September 1, 2010, are the students who will be affected by the new school leaving age of 18," said the Minister.

"Students who turn 16 before September 1, 2010, will not be obligated by law to attend school, although we certainly will encourage them to do so."

Raising the school leaving age was one of the ten recommendations of the Hopkins Report, which highlighted the desperate state of Bermuda education. Amendments to the Education Act 1996 came into law last year with implementation delayed to "allow our senior schools time to properly prepare for increased numbers of students", Mr. James said.

"While some may question the value of raising the upper limit for school leaving, Bermuda's decision is not unique. The United Kingdom, Germany, Japan and France amongst other countries share this same school leaving age."

The Minister said educators in Bermuda wanted students to achieve their senior school diploma and leave "with other relevant skills and qualifications".

"Our commitment is to ensure that students are better prepared to take their place in the world, be it the world of work, or the world outside of Bermuda."

He continued: "Having the appropriate skills is especially important in this Country and at this time not just for local companies but also for overseas companies which are domiciled here.

"An examination of local employment statistics, and interviews with local employers, show that there is a critical need for educational institutions to produce a more skilled labour force for Bermuda."

Increased apprenticeship opportunities, greater career counselling and guidance are also proposed in the Island's schools.

Mr. James said the Ministry had discussed increased enrolment with school heads, in respect to space, and health and safety regulations.

"The space question raised some unanticipated points," he said. "Young people in Bermuda can earn a driver's licence. Will we allow 18-year-olds to drive to school? At this point the response is no, but we will see how the numbers unfold."

He added smoking and drinking alcohol on school campuses would also be prohibited.

The Minister said: "Establishing the upper end of compulsory school as 18 is an opportunity which our entire community should embrace.

"We have upped the ante for setting our young people on a path to success. We will provide the programmes and the activities that they need to better prepare themselves for the future. The rest is now up to them."