Half of employers prefer VQs over academic qualifications
Half of employers value vocational qualifications more than those obtained through the academic route, according to research published today.
A survey of 1,000 small, medium and large businesses found 72% see VQs as “essential” for preparing young people for work.
The research, commissioned by education charity Edge and awarding body City & Guilds, comes shortly after a separate study suggested a third of businesses are looking abroad to bolster their workforce.
Chris Jones, chief executive of City & Guilds, said: “In recent years, society has placed too much emphasis on academia. But as the research shows, the current system is failing young people and not preparing them for the world of work.
“Employers are crying out for young people who have the right skills to add value to their businesses. Vocational qualifications can provide these skills – but how many people know about them? Careers advice provision in schools is limited, uninspiring, and often purely focused on university.”
He pointed to Thursday’s launch of The Skills Show, the UK’s largest skills and careers event, as being important for bringing together young people, employers and training providers to outline the opportunities skills can offer.
For more information on The Skills Show, click here.
Natalie Thornhill
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