ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that the capability approach (CA) offers a desirable alternative to current education policy frameworks in England, particularly for 16- to 19-year-olds. The aim of this discussion is to highlight the shortcomings of the current policy model, which can encourage the “pointless waiting” of young people to leave school. The discussion identifies the CA, conceived by Amartya Sen, as a viable framework that takes human development as its focus. In doing so, it can be used as a model for education policy that values the development of autonomy and dignity in young people. In part, this necessitates taking steps to understand what young people want to be and do in their lives and, in part, this entails a commitment to ensuring they have the freedom, resources and opportunities to develop their capabilities in order to achieve these things so as to give their life moral purpose.
