Article drafted by OCR, originally for inclusion in Career Guidance Today.
Students in education today are offered a broader range of qualifications than ever before. In addition to traditional subjects like English, mathematics and languages, learners can now study vocational qualifications as part of a work-related course.
The choice of qualifications can be overwhelming and this is where a careers advisor can help. Students usually don't have the time to investigate which course will be most suitable for them and what they will be able to do once they have completed it. Whether they choose traditional or vocational courses, both are equally valid routes to employment.
Attitudes towards education are changing all the time. Fifty years ago, post-16 study was almost unheard of and many children left school to learn a trade as an apprentice. During the sixties and seventies, an increasing number of students progressed to further and higher education, and fewer followed work based training. Nowadays, the picture is more balanced and students can mix and match academic and vocational courses to develop the skills they need in the working world.
Although modern academic qualifications such as GCSEs, A Levels and degrees are well known, careers advisors should not forget vocational qualifications. Covering a broad range of industries such as hairdressing and catering, right through to business and health and social care, vocational courses have a lot to offer candidates who already have an interest in a particular career or sector. And with a growing skills shortage in the UK , vocational education is more important than ever. When advising young people about the choices available to them, it's important to remember that some students will already have a career in mind and taking a vocational qualification can help them decide whether to pursue it.
Many industries are now working closely with awarding bodies to devise qualifications which are tailored to meet the needs of their sectors, preparing young people for the challenges and demands of the working world.
Launched in 2004, OCR Nationals are designed to help equip learners with the skills, knowledge and understanding they require for employment. OCR Nationals also develop other skills that will serve students well in any workplace, such as team working, communication and problem solving.
The industry relevant qualifications are available in nine subject areas including Business, Health and Social Care, Media, and Travel and Tourism, and can be studied full or part time. Available at Levels 1 to 3 of the National Qualifications Framework, OCR Nationals are suitable for 14 - 19 year olds or adult learners looking for a career change. The Level 3 qualifications are also included on the official UCAS points tariff from 2007 entry. This broadens the appeal for students who, perhaps having started working towards an industry relevant qualification, want to move on to higher education at a later date.
Designed to support the needs of UK business and industry, OCR Nationals and other vocational qualifications benefit employers too. Potential recruits who have achieved, for example, an OCR Level 3 National Certificate are making their career decisions based on real experience of what actual jobs and sectors are like.
Students can be overwhelmed by the choice of qualifications on offer. They rarely have the time to investigate their options thoroughly - this is where a careers advisor can help. By recommending the right qualification they can assist students to gain suitable knowledge, understanding and skills - whether they choose to progress to higher education or embark upon on their career.
To find out more about OCR Nationals, visit www.ocrnationals.com or call the OCR Customer Contact Centre on 02476 851509. | 
