More needs to be done by both schools and employers to prepare young people properly for the world of work, according to new research.

A survey published today (Tuesday) of more than 850 schools and employers across the UK reveals that young people are receiving little constructive support from either their teachers or prospective employers, with 52 per cent of the businesses surveyed admitting they do not focus enough on recruiting school leavers or graduates.

The survey was conducted by b-live, an organisation that works with schools to support the personal, vocational and educational development of youngsters aged between 12 and 19. It provides a secure social networking platform where employers and youth organisations can engage with young people.

Forty six per cent of the schools that took part in the survey said less than half of their students get into the right job or onto the right course when they leave school; just 25 per cent have direct links or partnerships with national organisations.

Only a third of the employers surveyed support local schools and, while 73 per cent cited work experience as the best way to make school leavers, graduates and apprentices employable, just 18 per cent felt they provided enough work experience.

A third of the schools surveyed said the number of students entering employment is the last important measure of success and less than half – 42 per cent – said employability was the most important part of the careers curriculum. Forty per cent of the teachers surveyed did not feel that the careers curriculum was a core objective for their school and just 8 per cent said providing or sourcing suitable employability post-16 was a key objective.

Tanja Kuveljic, b-live managing director, said: "Only when employers provide support to schools in delivering the careers curriculum will young people leave education with the relevant skills and realistic expectations of the workplace.

"Better communication between young people, pre-employment stage, and businesses will give young people a better insight into the jobs available and the skills and qualifications required. It will also add real value to the business by creating a sufficient talent pipeline, cutting resourcing costs and increasing retention."

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