The Value of Vocational – How Practical Learners Can Succeed

The recent A-Level results revealed a steep rise towards entries for traditional academic subjects but for some practical learners this route is not appropriate. There are learners who are motivated by a practical, hands-on engagement and it is important that we nurture this type of learner.

Vocational education offers different content, different skills and different forms of teaching. Good vocational programmes are “respected, valuable and an important part of our, and any other country’s, educational provision” (Wolf Report, 2011). The choice of whether a student should select an academic or vocational route should be determined by whether a specialist line of learning is appropriate for the students aspirations and whether they are well suited to a practical, hands-on approach to learning. The course still has academic rigour, as it is necessary to prepare students for progression to University, but the vocational qualifications are driven more by a practical application of knowledge. Last year, all of our BTEC Extended Diploma graduates were accepted to their first choice of University, which included Nottingham, Leeds and Ravensbourne.

DLD offers vocational courses in Business Studies, Media Production and Music Technology. These courses have been designed to provide an alternative to a traditional, A-Level route. They offer a more focussed approach to learning, as each student will specialise in their chosen field. A-Levels offer students the option to study a variety of subjects but some students may already have a firm idea of what they want to study. The vocational courses are also driven by the demands of industry.

Now in its third year at DLD, the BTEC Media Production course provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the creative industries. The creative industries in the UK are booming, and this trend seems to set to continue over the next five years. Worth an incredible £76.9 billion a year, the industry will require fresh talent and we have a duty to nurture their talents and enthusiasm and prepare students to enter this exciting and vibrant industry.

Click here to read more about the vocational courses on offer at DLD