According to a new report published by the Vlaamse Scholierenkoepel, an umbrella group that represents pupils in Flemish secondary schools, youngsters in our region believe that vocational education remains undervalued. They call for greater respect, clearer communication, and better opportunities for those in vocational education.
Many pupils in vocational education are proud of what they are studying but feel stigmatised by terms such as “B-stream” and “Labour market destined”. They urge policymakers to adopt terms that are more neutral and to involve pupils in the renaming process.
The report also calls for stronger links between schools and employers, more company visits, and better guidance throughout pupils’ school careers. Pupils want to choose the course they take based on their talents and interests, not based on a perception that they have failed.
Key recommendations include ending the so-called “waterfall system”, improving options for transition between study tracks and recognising for the seventh specialisation year with a diploma. Pupils also want more chances to progress to higher education and access to other available study options.
Schools are encouraged to reduce distinctions between the so-called “A-stream” (academic) and “B-stream” (vocational) tackle negative perceptions, offer challenging assignments to pupils following vocational education and showcase pupils’ work.