When it comes to most jobs, no matter how much academic qualification one has, they will still have to learn on the job. So rather than be educated twice as it were, sometimes it is better and more efficient to skip the theory and learn the practice. That is basically what vocational training is all about.
If you feel that your child (or you yourself) could benefit from vocational education, when checking out the various schools, look to see what brochures you can find at the reception desk. The administrator should have details on what is offered in terms of job training opportunities.
When someone wants to “get into business” one of the best ways of doing this is by work experience. Rather than just have this time dedicated to one’s summer vacation, part of the curriculum should be spent at a real company learning the ropes. This gives one much more of an “education” than sitting in a classroom learning about John Maynard Keynes.
Sometimes, very bright students even leave school early because they would rather be out in the workforce gaining experience that can lead to better jobs, than stuck in a classroom reading about John Keyes. At the end of the day, if one wants to offer something different and practical in the market, a school that provides vocational training is a great way in.