23 June 2010
Over 4 million vocational qualifications (VQs) were awarded last
year according to new figures released today to mark VQ Day, the
annual nationwide celebration of vocational qualifications.
The overall number of VQs achieved has risen over 11 per cent from
last year, according to the VQ Day review of vocational
qualifications. Sectors vital to the UK's economic recovery have
seen a considerable rise in the number of qualifications awarded.
The biggest sector growth area is Science and Maths (33 per cent
increase) which provides vital technical skills to ensure the UK is
successful in the global marketplace.
The imminent arrival of the Olympics has also impacted sectors with
Leisure, Travel and Tourism qualifications increasing by 24 per
cent. Meanwhile sectors vital to future economic growth have seen
rises, with Engineering and manufacturing qualifications up 21 per
cent, Construction up 22 per cent and Business, Administration and
Law up 24 per cent.
However, a sector that could see a lack of skilled workers in the
future is Agriculture, Horticulture and Animal Care which has seen
the biggest decline in qualifications awarded, with numbers
decreasing by 27 per cent.
Lord Baker, Chairman of independent education foundation Edge,
which supports VQ Day said: "If the UK is to succeed in the global
economy we will need a larger skilled workforce. These VQ increases
in our major industries are good news for economic growth in the
years to come."
"For three years in a row we have seen a rise in vocational
qualifications awarded which is very encouraging. But, we must not
be complacent as there is still room for improvement to ensure that
all young people have access to the many paths to success
available."
Today marks the third annual VQ Day, a nationwide celebration of
the people who gain vocational qualifications each year. The Day
raises the stature and demonstrates the benefits of practical and
vocational qualifications to future learners, employers, opinion
formers and the wider public.
Other findings in the report reveal:
• Higher level VQs are increasing with foundation degrees growing
strongly in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. 18,850 were
awarded across the UK compared to 15,000 the previous
year
• Health, Public Services & Care was the biggest single sector
for VQs in the UK in 2008-09, with over a million qualifications
achieved
• Workplace qualifications are also increasing with 959,000
National and Scottish Vocational Qualifications achieved, an
increase of over 24% on the previous year
Senior business leaders will today debate the impact and the future
of vocational qualifications in the workplace. Discussing the
report will be 100 senior executives from Whitbread, McDonalds,
Merseytravel and Clugstons Construction amongst others at the
annual VQ Day, this year being held at the Royal Horticultural
Halls. The day's celebrations will also include the VQ Learner
Award ceremony hosted by entertainment icon Arlene Phillips OBE,
which will recognise these learners who have achieved vocational
excellence.
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