Concerns about practice-focused programs vmbo.

Concerns about practice-focused programs vmbo.

On 27 June there is a debate in the House of Representatives about the vmbo. Ouders & Onderwijs has sent a letter about this to the members of the House. The letter contains important focus points and concerns about the introduction of practical programs in the vmbo.

It is understandable to teach students practical skills. Still, this idea brings big risks. The practical programs can take away time from general subjects, such as Dutch, geography and history. 

Uncertainty about content 

Practical programs include subjects like welding or cooking. But schools can also fill this with ‘skills education’ like teamwork and communication. These skills are described in vague terms and are hard to check or grade. These skills should be part of existing education, which already happens in many places. 

Lack of supervision 

The practical programs must be taught by qualified teachers, but teacher shortages make this uncertain. Schools can choose to let students work independently, but this then costs teaching time. Strict rules and good supervision of the practical programs are therefore essential. 

Importance of broad education 

If the practical program is introduced in the vmbo, it will be 320 teaching hours. Students in the vmbo already have relatively little time in secondary education, and broad education is very important. Teaching time in general subjects, like math and English, must not be lost to unclear skills programs or independent work. 

Promotion of real vocational education 

It is good to train students in a practice-focused way, but this must be real vocational education. To make the practice-focused programs succeed, there must be high demands and strict rules. Only this way can we ensure that students are well prepared for their future. 

Ouders & Onderwijs calls on the House of Representatives to take our concerns seriously and include our recommendations during the debate.