About 20,000 vocational courses are being changed ‘between academic and technical options’; the technical courses will be targeted at a specific occupation and teach common math, English and digital skills. The government believes this will simplify the vocational course system and allow the most efficient courses for young people and teach them the skills needed specifically for the UK economy. The courses are followed by an apprenticeship and set to begin in 2019.
Lord Sainsbury’s Report highlighted the fact there were too many courses that did not provide the necessary skills needed for future employment noting that currently there are 20,000 courses provided by 160 different organisations. The course will be created by the ‘employer panel’ to ensure that essential skills are taught to students.
The system remains complex with many courses for one particular vocational skill such as engineering which is taught by 501 courses, without the knowledge of the course that will be best for future job prospects. However, although the simplicity of courses has been supported, critics have added that more funding is needed in colleges so students receive adequate support.
The vocational system has been too complex and does not allow students to assess which option is most appropriate for their career prospects. This simplification should allow students better job prospects. However, more funding is needed in vocational education because without the proper financial support, and colleges under strain courses will not be adequate for students.
More support is also needed for post 16 year olds and choosing career options; career guidance before leaving high school should include a wide variety of vocational and academic options. This will also help young people to make the best choice which suits their skills and talents. The government should also make an effort to address career guidance in high schools, so everyone is able to make the best choice when pursuing future ambitions.
Overall, the government has improved the options for post 16 year olds when they choose their vocational and academic courses at colleges. However, more attention is needed in the guidance that is provided to young people so they understand all avenues that can be pursued.
Hopefully, these proposed changes will ensure that young people do not only get a job but equip them with mathematical, English and digital skills required by employers. This will allow them to reflect the changing job environment and the importance of digital skills in companies today.
