Vocational Training

Part of Oral Answers to Questions — Education and Skills – in the House of Commons am 11:30 am ar 24 Mawrth 2005.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Ruth Kelly Ruth Kelly Secretary of State, Department for Education and Skills 11:30, 24 Mawrth 2005

I completely agree with my hon. Friend. May I say how much I have valued his contribution to the House over the years, not least during our dealings in the Finance Committee? It is imperative that we raise the esteem of vocational training and that our young people realise that vocational training and education is valued in our society. I think that we can do that by involving employers and higher education institutions in the design of the curriculum that young people follow. They can thus learn the subjects that they want to learn in the way in which they want to and in the place that motivates them. When we achieve that, rationalise vocational and academic qualifications and introduce new specialised diplomas that are recognised by young people, parents, employers and the higher education sector, we will transform the opportunities available for young people.