Half of young people worry about the future

Almost half of young people are worried about their future, an Ofsted report has found.

While the majority of young people say they are happy, healthy and feel safe, around 8 per cent are unhappy with life in general.

The annual survey questioned around 150,000 ten to 15-year-olds in England.

It found that half say that they didn't enjoy school, compared to 58 per cent last year, while almost six in ten worry about exams they will take in the future.

The survey, which asks children about a wide range of issues, found that a third of youngsters worry the most about their bodies, with a similar figure asking for better information and advice about sex and relationships.

A large minority said they had been bullied at school, with over a quarter saying bullying was a "significant" worry for them.

Just 35 per cent said their schools dealt with bullying well.

Ofsted chief inspector Christine Gilbert, said: "The survey finds much that is positive in their lives, and encouragingly some things have improved since last year's survey.

"However, more needs to be done to support concerns for those children who do not feel safe in schools, those who are bullied and children who smoke, drink and misuse drugs."

Children's minister Beverley Hughes, said: "I welcome the survey which provides an important insight into children and young people's lives and views. It plays an integral part in shaping the Government's plans to improve the lives of children over the next ten years."