The Vocational Route to Higher Education

Plans to increase the number of students entering higher education are welcomed; although it is argued that student loans do not fit in with this policy, and that in reality higher education requires extra funding. The way to expand higher education is seen as through a high‐status vocational route. This is contrasted with current forms of vocational schooling. A good general education for students up to the age of 16 is proposed, with subsequent quality vocational training which encourages access to higher education. The increased status of the vocational route will follow and, in return, high quality vocational education will offer motivation for schools, a higher proportion of graduates and more highly qualified staff.