Minister for Skills Baroness Jacqui Smith, has sent a heartfelt message to the UK’s young ‘grafters’ on the frontline of the Prime Minister’s ‘Hard Hat Revolution’.
The video features in an hourlong special live broadcast from organisers, skills charity Enginuity, marking the nation’s inaugural Vocational Celebration Day on August 6th (10.00-11.00), aimed at helping parity of esteem with those on academic pathways.
The YouTube stream, presented by skills campaigner Steph McGovern, features inspirational stories from young learners across the country
In her message the Minister says;
“Hi Steph, I’m really sorry I can’t be there in person today, but I wanted to send this message to everyone celebrating Vocational Celebration Day, a brilliant initiative. Students should be incredibly proud of their hard work and their achievements today.
“And I’m really grateful to teachers, employers, and staff for everything they’ve done to support students up to this point.
“As the Prime Minister said last week, it’s vital for the future of our country that we finally start valuing the hard hat just as much as the graduation cap. I completely agree, and it’s one of the things that drives me as Minister for Skills.
“Young people deserve respect no matter the path that they choose. Apprenticeships, T levels, and other vocational courses represent really prestigious routes skilled, well-paid work. And they should be talked about that way, not treated as some sort of fallback option.
“So today I want to celebrate. The electricians, the engineers, the chefs, the coders, the carers, and everyone who chose a vocational path. That takes skill, graft, and pride. And it’s about time the country recognised that properly. To everyone who’s newly qualified, take a moment to feel proud of what you’ve achieved. You’ve gained skills the country needs, and that achievement deserves to be celebrated.
“The Prime Minister has been crystal clear that we’re putting technical education on an equal footing with academic study. That’s why we’re introducing V levels alongside A levels and T levels and providing 14-year-olds with prestigious technical education routes to hone their skills and develop their connections so there’s a clear, respected vocational route for young people at every stage. So to everyone here today, thank you for the work you do and the pride you bring to it. Enjoy these celebrations because you’ve more than earned them.”