CHANGING TIDE OF PARENTAL OPINION HIGHLIGHTS GROWING SUPPORT FOR VOCATIONAL TRAINING

Watson comments: “It is only right – and about time, in my opinion – that apprenticeships have a revival. In the past, they have been seen as the last resort for school leavers, and more suited to those struggling academically. In reality however, the skills associated with advanced level apprenticeships in industries such as engineering and manufacturing demand able students.”

Highlighting the findings of the research*, which have been released ahead of VQ Day on 22 June, Watson goes on to say: “It is vital that all parents understand and support the vocational route. When they do, they will see that skills-based learning can really open doors to a rewarding career path for their children at a time when employment prospects are gloomy.” She adds: “Parental advice, combined with a greater acceptance of the value of apprenticeships in schools, can help students make informed choices when choosing what subjects to take at GCSE, and so set them on a path to a worthwhile, and often exciting, career.”

Watson admits that a lot of work still needs to be done to successfully challenge the perception of vocational education in this country but, says: “This report shows that the tide is finally turning. If the Government continues its current programme promoting vocational training as a more viable choice, we’re definitely heading in the right direction. The UK will thrive as an economy if we have the right mix of academia and skills; both can go hand in hand, and in industries such as engineering and manufacturing, it’s not uncommon for the board or CEO of a firm to have started their career as an apprentice. Now I think that’s an exciting prospect for any parent.”