UK students could end academic education at 14
(The Guardian): Students will be able to leave academic education at 14 in favour of vocational training at specialist colleges under coalition plans. Up to 70 technical schools teaching practical skills could be opened before the next election, according to Lord Baker of Dorking, the former Tory education secretary who is heading the scheme. Baker said the schools were not a small experiment but a movement designed to tackle a shortage of young people with vocational skills. Critics fear it would create a two-tier system, with less able students at risk of being pushed into vocational courses and pupils forced to make important decisions about their future at too young an age.
Category: World News
Technical schools have their place in society. It is important, however, that in addition to the vocational training, that English Language, English Literature, Mathematics and a foreign language be included in the curricula. This is to ensure that the students are also good communicators upon graduation.
I agree that it is needed, but 14 is too young for such a decision, age 16 would be better. Then keep them in a vocational school until at least 18 yrs of age.
We are turning them loose into the working world too early with insufficient skills.
Just another example of a "developed" nation dumbing down the population.
The govt on this island is doing a great job of it too.
Dumb it down.
Badly needed here – vocational studies and work ethics.
Vocational education has been lacking in Cayman for decades.
Government after government has ignored this issue and we are seeing the impact to our society today.
Not everyone is an academic. Yet, those who are not are marginalized by Cayman’s current education system.
I agree. There would be less crime if young people had an earlier focus and concrete goals.
Starting vocational studies at an earlier age is an excellent idea. I hope this is seriously looked at by the local Education Ministry.