Two-thirds (67%) of people living in Scotland back the prioritisation of technical and vocational qualifications - providing hands-on, job-specific training - according to new polling conducted by YouGov and commissioned by Colleges Scotland.

The survey also found nearly six in ten respondents (58%) think too much value is currently placed on academic education and not enough on vocational and technical pathways. More than half (55%) believe schools and career advisers favour academic qualifications over vocational and technical options.

The findings highlight the importance of vocational education, in which colleges play a large and vital role, and strengthen the case for such learning being on an equal footing with traditional academic study.

Public support for apprenticeships was particularly strong. Around three quarters of respondents (77%) said too few individuals are entering apprenticeships, while half (49%) believe vocational and technical qualifications will best prepare young people for future job changes driven by AI, automation and other new technologies.

Taken together, the findings point to strong public backing for rebalancing the education system and attaching greater value to vocational, technical and work-based learning, alongside traditional academic routes, to address skills shortages and support economic growth.

The findings also reinforce conclusions from other recent major studies, including the interim report of the Milburn Review, which calls for greater recognition of technical and vocational qualifications across the UK.

Commenting on YouGov’s findings, Gavin Donoghue, CEO of Colleges Scotland, said:

“The message from the public is clear – they want to see more people have the opportunity to experience vocational education and apprenticeships, and for these routes to be valued just as highly as traditional academic qualifications.

“Scotland’s colleges are the cornerstone of our vocational education system and provide over 14,000 Modern Apprenticeships each year – giving people the skills they need to adapt to a rapidly changing economy. Colleges are also valuable community anchors, empowering people of all ages and backgrounds to learn and secure good jobs and rewarding careers.

“To meet the public’s call for increased vocational education and apprenticeships, colleges need sustainable investment that enables them to plan ahead with confidence and respond flexibly to the changing needs of learners, employers and their communities.”

Stuart McKenna, Chief Executive of the Scottish Training Federation, said:

“I warmly welcome the clear public support for increased vocational and technical education. The strong backing for apprenticeships, in particular, reflects a growing recognition that work-based learning can provide an excellent route into highly skilled careers.

“Colleges have a vital role in delivering vocational education and apprenticeships, offering valuable learning opportunities across the whole of Scotland. Indeed, the continued success of apprenticeships depends on government unlocking the combined strengths of employers, independent training providers and colleges to deliver for Scotland's economy."