An article for Edge by Professor William Richardson from the University of Exeter reviewing practical and vocational learning undertaken by ‘academically able’ young people.
The article suggests that secondary education in England and Wales places a higher value on knowledge-based learning than practical learning, with practical and vocational education largely regarded as a means of enhancing the motivation of learners of average or below average potential. He says that very little research has been done to look at the impact of practical and vocational learning on 'academically-able' young people.