Changing attitudes to vocational education

20 November 2014

This paper argues for a fundamental change to the way we view vocational education. Changing attitudes is the next key step in transforming our education system into the inclusive and productive one we need to prosper in the global market place.

Recent reforms to strengthen vocational education are welcome. But attitudes have not kept up with the pace of change, and it remains the poor relation of academic attainment.

NFER believes this is a challenge that requires urgent attention, and proposes some actions for policymakers to raise awareness and understanding among teachers, parents and employers that will help bring about real change for young people.