Youth Unemployment – UK – Are vocational qualifications a better option than university ?

“In this economic climate, with such high rates of graduate unemployment, should school leavers give far greater consideration to vocational qualifications?” asks Jane Scott Paul in Are vocational qualifications a better option than university? on guardian.co.uk.

“Sadly though, youth unemployment is hardly limited to unqualified school leavers: it now extends to many of Britain’s brightest and most able young people… Too many recent graduates have ended up in low paid, menial jobs that they didn’t need a degree for… Four in 10 of our university elite are currently trapped in a low-skilled or menial job.” adds Paul.

“It would appear that a university education does not automatically lead graduates to the promised land. So what are the alternatives for parents hoping their children will become successful lawyers, accountants and engineers – the ‘white collar careers’ many people aspire to.”

“The most promising alternative lies in high-quality vocational qualifications…”

“High-quality vocational qualifications and on the job learning can be the best option for many of the most talented students. However, the vocational path is not a panacea and there are a few significant issues that need to be addressed.”

Are vocational qualifications a better option than university? | Education | guardian.co.uk.