Stephen
Metcalfe, local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, has today welcomed the
new Technical Baccalaureate designed to help young people get the high-quality
vocational education they deserve.
The
TechBacc, announced by the Government this week, will combine three key
elements – a rigorous vocational qualification, a core maths qualification, and
an extended project to test literacy skills.
This
new measure will finally give vocational education the high status it deserves
— putting it on a par with A-level study and recognising excellence. It will
give young people a first-class vocational alternative to academic routes,
ensuring they have the technical ability employers want, and giving Britain the
skilled workforce it needs to compete in the global race.
Mr
Metcalfe commented: “This announcement is fantastic news for young people in
South Basildon and East Thurrock who want to work hard towards a technically
skilled job or apprenticeship.”
“For
too long, too many students haven’t had the chance to study for high-quality
vocational qualifications that are recognised by employers. This measure will
ensure that young people receive a rigorous education in the skills employers’
value and help them get the jobs they deserve.”
Skills
Minister, Matthew Hancock added: “The TechBacc will be a mark of achievement
for young people who successfully study three key elements – a rigorous
high-quality vocational course, maths and literacy. We are being clear to our
young people about the skills they need to succeed and get good jobs.”
“We
want an education system in which everyone can reach their potential and our
reforms to post-16 qualifications, including the introduction of the new
TechBacc will provide that. They will incentivise the development of high-quality
courses and incentivise schools and colleges to offer the courses that get
young people on in life.”
