Two thirds of GB adults believe that employers value work-based skills as much as, or more highly than, academic qualifications according to a new survey from The Skills Show.
Vocational careers are enjoying a new found respect among Britons, who are increasingly aware of the vital role that skills, apprenticeships and work-based learning have in the employment market.
More than half (58%) of those questioned for the survey, commissioned to coincide with The Skills Show which takes place at the NEC Birmingham from 15th-17th November, thought that they would be more likely to get a job if they had a skill or trade than if they had a degree.
The ‘Skills Snapshot 2012’, a study of 2,000 GB adults, shows that almost two thirds of those questioned feel they could pursue their dream career if they had more support, advice, information and training to help them develop the skills they need and identify opportunities which exist in the world of work. And more than half of those questioned would turn to a respected professional in their chosen field to help them develop and refine their skills.
Young people who are considering their future options, and adults looking for a new career, will have an ideal opportunity to get all the advice and support they need at The Skills Show – the UK’s biggest free skills and careers event. The show will give up to 100,000 visitors the opportunity to discover more about work-based skills, further education and apprenticeships.
Ross Maloney, chief executive of The Skills Show, commented, “The way we think about work-based skills and their value to the UK economy is changing. Vocational careers are now seen as genuinely exciting opportunities for young people and with so many options now available, there is a chance for everyone to be successful.”
As well as being able to discuss future careers and training opportunities, visitors to The Skills Show will also be able to watch a huge range of vocations in action. The best of the nation’s young talent will be performing in the WorldSkills UK Competitions, many of which are UK finals, that are designed to excite interest in individuals and employers to develop vocational talent to the highest levels.
“Young people have so much potential just waiting to be unlocked,” continued Maloney. “We are confident that The Skills Show will help them to discover skills that inspire them and which, with the right support and advice, will help them realise their dreams.”
