Vocational qualifications vital in achieving career goals say half of jobseekers

Gaining a professional vocational qualification is a vital step in achieving long term career goals for over half (51%) of workers, according to research conducted among jobseekers by Home Learning College and recruitment website reed.co.uk. Of those who had undertaken vocational study, 84% described it as essential or beneficial to their career development. The survey - completed by over 4,000 active jobseekers registered with reed.co.uk - revealed that 61% have a professional vocational qualification. Over a third (36%) had studied with the intention of enhancing their professional profile. Around a fifth (21%) gained their qualification in order to do their existing job better, while 10% did so to change career. The research also highlighted the role that employers and recruiters can play in recommending career-enhancing qualifications to candidates. A third of respondents said they would personally fund such study if they knew it would significantly increase their chances of getting the job they want. However, 36% were unsure whether employers would hire a candidate with relevant vocational qualifications but no experience, while a third thought that would be unlikely. Home Learning College Academic Director Dave Snow believes there is scope for recruitment professionals to provide useful advice to candidates on the qualifications most likely to enhance their job search. He comments: “The research shows that jobseekers are willing to invest in vocational study if they believe it will deliver the desired results. The recruitment industry is well-placed to act as a link between employers and candidates when it comes to promoting the value of vocational qualifications in developing real-life practical skills. “Within the competitive graduate market, professional vocational qualifications are a great way of identifying ambitious, motivated candidates who have continued to develop their knowledge and skills since leaving university. Vocational routes are also likely to become increasingly popular as the effects of higher education funding cuts and reduced student places force employees and employers alike to think beyond degrees.” Home Learning College is the UK’s biggest provider of professionally accredited distance learning and a trusted reed.co.uk training partner. More information on Home Learning College courses can be found in reed.co.uk’s Learning Centre: http://www.reed.co.uk/LearningCentre/Profile/HomeLearningCollege ENDS

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