Raising the school leaving age, which is currently 15, in 2008 is part of a package of measures announced by the Guernsey Education Council.

The move is part of a three-pronged initiative to keep young people engaged in education and would bring the island into line with the rest of the British Isles.

In the meantime it is hoped improved facilities at the College of FE and the introduction of a new curriculum will encourage more students to stay on.

A Council spokesman said: "The Council is committed to providing better options for school leavers especially those who don't necessarily want to follow the academic GCSE or A level route."