Vocational education in schools provides a wide range of important skills and benefits, and are the stepping stone to realistically addressing the country's 'skills shortage' situation.
President of South Australian Secondary Principals Association, Jim Davies, says that "The most obvious and possibly the most important association between schools and businesses is vocational training."
He said that schools often work with employers for a range of benefits. "For some students, you see a sense of purpose emerging; for others the decision about their career has already been made and its about developing their skills and expertise."
However, whilst the focus tends to be on the job, the career path and the associated skills developed, another real benefit, typically overlooked, is the development of 'soft skills' which young people acquire when they're taken out of the classroom.
Davies states "When there's connectivity between schools and workplaces, there's a broad array of skills developed, which are not just limited to trades."
This includes:
- interpersonal skills
- the ability to relate to others
- an understanding of what the community expects from them
- a sense of appropriate work attire
"The workplace demands a different form of communication and the development of an understanding of community standards and expectations," said Mr Davies.
One of the most vital aspects of vocational training was the self-esteem and sense of belonging it fosters. Said Mr Davies, "For a 15 year old who gets connected to one of these pathways, there's a powerful message to the individual (that) we have faith in them and that they are a valued member of the community."
"Too often we don't send those messages to young people loudly and often enough."
More businesses were realising vocational training in schools was the best way to address skills shortages, said Mr Davies.
"Schools are the supply chain for the workforce, but it's a two-way street and everyone needs to get involved to address future skills shortages."
